




if (typeof(disqus_iframe_css) == 'undefined') {
	disqus_iframe_css = '';
}
if (typeof(disqus_def_name) == 'undefined') {
	disqus_def_name = '';
}
if (typeof(disqus_def_email) == 'undefined') {
	disqus_def_email = '';
}
if (typeof(disqus_skip_auth) == 'undefined') {
	disqus_skip_auth = false;
}
if (typeof(disqus_default_text) == 'undefined') {
	disqus_default_text = 'Type your comment here.';
}

(function(){
	
	var ie = document.uniqueID
		&& document.compatMode
		&& !window.XMLHttpRequest
		&& document.execCommand ;

	try {
		if(!!ie) {
			document.execCommand("BackgroundImageCache", false, true);
		}
	} catch(e) {};
})();

var Dsq = new function() {
	this.container = document.getElementById('dsq-content');
	this.jsonData = {"reactions": [{"body": "Classic Scoble stuff", "author_name": "Scott Schnaars", "source_url": "http://www.ubervu.com/conversations/scobleizer.com/2008/10/19/i-am-not-an-american/", "id": 1065811, "get_service_url": "http://friendfeed.com/", "title": "", "url": "http://friendfeed.com/e/6db73e08-e9c1-44e6-8fec-e5b63e448816#13af6716-49ac-4f30-bc3d-685943ff1a45", "source": "ubervu", "get_service_name": "friendfeed", "avatar_url": "http://friendfeed.com/schnaars/picture?size=large", "author_url": "", "date_created": "1 year ago", "retweets": []}, {"body": "\"Dave Winer wrote a post about not being a liberal.\n\nI\u2019m going further than Dave. I\u2019m not an American.\"", "author_name": "Kol Tregaskes", "source_url": "http://www.ubervu.com/conversations/scobleizer.com/2008/10/19/i-am-not-an-american/", "id": 1065812, "get_service_url": "http://friendfeed.com/", "title": "", "url": "http://friendfeed.com/e/9810afbd-f147-4ce4-b9e1-a16953067802#d072108a-933a-4b21-9326-ba01dadf2e3e", "source": "ubervu", "get_service_name": "friendfeed", "avatar_url": "http://friendfeed.com/koltregaskes/picture?size=large", "author_url": "", "date_created": "1 year ago", "retweets": []}, {"body": "Robert Scoble writes a great little piece here.", "author_name": "Dave Schumaker", "source_url": "http://www.ubervu.com/conversations/scobleizer.com/2008/10/19/i-am-not-an-american/", "id": 1065814, "get_service_url": "http://friendfeed.com/", "title": "", "url": "http://friendfeed.com/e/f5c15b8e-bbf3-1f67-fb5a-42c6c146dac5#6dededc8-07d2-44ee-ae9b-ef55e1f3c290", "source": "ubervu", "get_service_name": "friendfeed", "avatar_url": "http://friendfeed.com/rockbandit/picture?size=large", "author_url": "", "date_created": "1 year ago", "retweets": []}, {"body": "I'm definitely not an American.", "author_name": "Tim Trentham", "source_url": "http://www.ubervu.com/conversations/scobleizer.com/2008/10/19/i-am-not-an-american/", "id": 1065813, "get_service_url": "http://friendfeed.com/", "title": "", "url": "http://friendfeed.com/e/d9210892-e2d8-89b5-b382-f900f8f02b85#1a9474a0-2e30-4a29-8c8b-8f704ec03f09", "source": "ubervu", "get_service_name": "friendfeed", "avatar_url": "http://friendfeed.com/ttrentham/picture?size=large", "author_url": "", "date_created": "1 year ago", "retweets": []}, {"body": "Brilliant, Robert. Thanks.", "author_name": "Darius Dunlap", "source_url": "http://www.ubervu.com/conversations/scobleizer.com/2008/10/19/i-am-not-an-american/", "id": 1065815, "get_service_url": "http://friendfeed.com/", "title": "", "url": "http://friendfeed.com/e/52dd998b-fe62-25b4-edfd-19cfcec035ec#f8a7d2d1-2330-4275-91be-165a0510ed84", "source": "ubervu", "get_service_name": "friendfeed", "avatar_url": "http://friendfeed.com/dariusdunlap/picture?size=large", "author_url": "", "date_created": "1 year ago", "retweets": []}], "has_more_reactions": false, "users": {"c43d6187a525c7c55c7f35ad53f06b8c": {"username": "Anon", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Anon", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/c43d6187a525c7c55c7f35ad53f06b8c/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "4e7795db93a344b5c2f6277591b4c674": {"username": "Joe Wharton", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Joe Wharton", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/4e7795db93a344b5c2f6277591b4c674/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "8d4d0daf7fc65179b88aa5ced8c10fe6": {"username": "Alissa Landsone", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Alissa Landsone", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/8d4d0daf7fc65179b88aa5ced8c10fe6/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "b7e2a5ee390358cb95a4b158d6d1600f": {"username": "TKH", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "TKH", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/b7e2a5ee390358cb95a4b158d6d1600f/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "e191a7f98a76362834372a52889cc3f7": {"username": "Brock", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Brock", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/e191a7f98a76362834372a52889cc3f7/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "645ef06a25b0fa1973d1aa255cd91b77": {"username": "Raul Orviedo", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Raul Orviedo", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/645ef06a25b0fa1973d1aa255cd91b77/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "b320dd1537aecca5b834c180bd00dd57": {"username": "Josh Smith", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Josh Smith", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/b320dd1537aecca5b834c180bd00dd57/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://lovelove.typepad.com/weblog/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "0f5ab3b0c3f51bbb828b9e1a40af2afa": {"username": "m", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "m", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/0f5ab3b0c3f51bbb828b9e1a40af2afa/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "fd6ca4e8cf51cadb5c8568969fc3c4bb": {"username": "Lynnelle", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Lynnelle", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/fd6ca4e8cf51cadb5c8568969fc3c4bb/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.boldvisionconsulting.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "38da1dfc8870f5945288b1aa9bff42bd": {"username": "MarkJ", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "MarkJ", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/38da1dfc8870f5945288b1aa9bff42bd/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "ea727709adadd23c3ab50080ea46e35f": {"username": "Christi", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Christi", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/ea727709adadd23c3ab50080ea46e35f/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "d2dc0c35d8875fd85f64f196651d59d5": {"username": "Oxhorn", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Oxhorn", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/d2dc0c35d8875fd85f64f196651d59d5/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.oxhornbrandmovies.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "e3c324a94d9c7529607a1d229424dbab": {"username": "smohkim", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "smohkim", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/e3c324a94d9c7529607a1d229424dbab/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "a7777a66bce5131a9609b21815e56b3c": {"username": "Julia Ault", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Julia Ault", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/a7777a66bce5131a9609b21815e56b3c/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://ffynnonweb.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "8687b4ec6f79e6019c57dda6a7b75d36": {"username": "Roads", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Roads", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/8687b4ec6f79e6019c57dda6a7b75d36/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://roadsofstone.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/anonusers/61/5564/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "63f289d0adff09dc3ff2ce690a25ab3e": {"username": "Tim", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Tim", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/63f289d0adff09dc3ff2ce690a25ab3e/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.techtoolblog.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "b1b2671e1ada23038e030d4fca747de3": {"username": "Christianity = Socialism...  J", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Christianity = Socialism...  J", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/b1b2671e1ada23038e030d4fca747de3/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "7e7d5611762251b7b1939a7c7b01d648": {"username": "Angus McDonald", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Angus McDonald", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/7e7d5611762251b7b1939a7c7b01d648/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://falkayn.blogspot.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "2d9567a5dc6d38988355ee3e8c0429f2": {"username": "Chris Saad", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Chris Saad", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/2d9567a5dc6d38988355ee3e8c0429f2/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.chrissaad.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/anonusers/8/914/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "021f78e9313029a974804f9d4f56d386": {"username": "Susan Beebe", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Susan Beebe", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/021f78e9313029a974804f9d4f56d386/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://friendfeed.com/susanbeebe", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/anonusers/48/3975/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "5bac7e588a9845314575b2b8fbabc374": {"username": "TommyC", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "TommyC", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/5bac7e588a9845314575b2b8fbabc374/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "088c71ae273b0b3182fefc3027e862e8": {"username": "Jess Fein", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Jess Fein", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/088c71ae273b0b3182fefc3027e862e8/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "ff0eb14189bbc1754983c610b5895ae4": {"username": "Herschel", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Herschel", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/ff0eb14189bbc1754983c610b5895ae4/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://bloghh.wordpress.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "c510febb9bed68b5cc4a09f076701e0f": {"username": "Algorithmic", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Algorithmic", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/c510febb9bed68b5cc4a09f076701e0f/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/anonusers/4119/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "64c9b71310898a05c04917efc1508fc9": {"username": "Jesse Waite", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Jesse Waite", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/64c9b71310898a05c04917efc1508fc9/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.new.facebook.com/profile.php?id=27210707", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "66cd59488b94ea94ec0ae388801fe505": {"username": "Deva Hazarika", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Deva Hazarika", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/66cd59488b94ea94ec0ae388801fe505/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.emaildashboard.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "820d0e4ee14e986a44d33782ca852f51": {"username": "bob", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "bob", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/820d0e4ee14e986a44d33782ca852f51/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "f3b41bc009a402017febfab746770bc5": {"username": "jonas", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "jonas", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/f3b41bc009a402017febfab746770bc5/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "ca43130d4f4f2e99df116c585a1a3cae": {"username": "Richard Becker", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Richard Becker", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/ca43130d4f4f2e99df116c585a1a3cae/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.copywriteink.blogspot.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "508432b9468626d9a21f500591ff00e8": {"username": "Bryan Bro.", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Bryan Bro.", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/508432b9468626d9a21f500591ff00e8/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.twitter.com/bryanbro", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "675914db36adc736e74e546e9751cb78": {"username": "mike", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "mike", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/675914db36adc736e74e546e9751cb78/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "2c31a14e936cf87c686a835ac37e34cd": {"username": "CoolProducts", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "CoolProducts", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/2c31a14e936cf87c686a835ac37e34cd/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://coolproducts.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "16d48334bc778cdb73271c72c953a86f": {"username": "James", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "James", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/16d48334bc778cdb73271c72c953a86f/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://deadnode.org/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "db6d6c4f77cf8036b5d8f7695da5872c": {"username": "davemall", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "davemall", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/db6d6c4f77cf8036b5d8f7695da5872c/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "0e0e7f8d2d5505c06f658d46c0c0eb70": {"username": "Robert", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Robert", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/0e0e7f8d2d5505c06f658d46c0c0eb70/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "3d88f8e3aa89a242d9852624f08e7152": {"username": "matthew", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "matthew", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/3d88f8e3aa89a242d9852624f08e7152/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "8eadfe94725119b6bde5c003704cd13f": {"username": "Social Media Marketing Blog", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Social Media Marketing Blog", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/8eadfe94725119b6bde5c003704cd13f/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.socialmediaplex.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "831c1ce23f49fd2e6279826284c9cdb6": {"username": "Chris Howard", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Chris Howard", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/831c1ce23f49fd2e6279826284c9cdb6/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.applematters.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "57b159bb5ac6bcf0e269c80c704987f6": {"username": "Quli", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Quli", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/57b159bb5ac6bcf0e269c80c704987f6/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.alisvantage.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "21554c55662fc8e13cc5de6f77805230": {"username": "whoindatgarden", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "whoindatgarden", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/21554c55662fc8e13cc5de6f77805230/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "a9e41d14e2d0e4b2af819d0fbde85f9a": {"username": "martin english", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "martin english", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/a9e41d14e2d0e4b2af819d0fbde85f9a/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://martin-english.com/whatsup", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/anonusers/28273/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "945693af19a797221e6b7fd418feb9ff": {"username": "wekempf", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "wekempf", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/945693af19a797221e6b7fd418feb9ff/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/anonusers/186/8173/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "b0829fa25b968cd762cea2948f7cd5eb": {"username": "junal", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "junal", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/b0829fa25b968cd762cea2948f7cd5eb/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://junal.wordpress.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "42a306783dc7ccb156ed854ccbfc5aca": {"username": "benb", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "benb", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/42a306783dc7ccb156ed854ccbfc5aca/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "1b061b9d90923aa94be36439e646527e": {"username": "philatom", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "philatom", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/1b061b9d90923aa94be36439e646527e/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://friendfeed.com/philatom", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "372e20a4071420100fc6d14a28bad7fa": {"username": "Nicky", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Nicky", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/372e20a4071420100fc6d14a28bad7fa/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://nickyjameson.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/anonusers/56/3129/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "f726edd0f556a748514a61a938b2a310": {"username": "smartminion", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "smartminion", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/f726edd0f556a748514a61a938b2a310/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "b447c85ba5c1c57dfe45d9cbc44ef5d6": {"username": "Mark", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Mark", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/b447c85ba5c1c57dfe45d9cbc44ef5d6/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "0f18cb72cd66ede9a1f64230b52f7029": {"username": "jonathan rose", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "jonathan rose", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/0f18cb72cd66ede9a1f64230b52f7029/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.jonathanrosecompany.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "9226fabdacf6a45e24adb426649a8c33": {"username": "Yorkali", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Yorkali", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/9226fabdacf6a45e24adb426649a8c33/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://imajin.wordpress.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/anonusers/189/4729/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "39cee37f0cfa4d2c9806ca4fb4982d61": {"username": "Richard", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Richard", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/39cee37f0cfa4d2c9806ca4fb4982d61/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "aca81ab5bf69a4626c91edc811cea208": {"username": "gRegor", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "gRegor", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/aca81ab5bf69a4626c91edc811cea208/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://gregorlove.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "0268f72f94e6a50e3f667ce0fc5d0dd1": {"username": "Dave Tong", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Dave Tong", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/0268f72f94e6a50e3f667ce0fc5d0dd1/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://blogs.sun.com/davetong", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "d0f0fb6ac9472944ef2cd4a3009d5c98": {"username": "Douglas Karr", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Douglas Karr", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/d0f0fb6ac9472944ef2cd4a3009d5c98/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.douglaskarr.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/anonusers/24/128/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "edwink": {"username": "edwink", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Edwin Khodabakchian", "url": "http://disqus.com/edwink/", "registered": true, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://edwink.devhd.com", "remote_domain": null, "points": 9, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/users/3758/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": true, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "902beb20bdc49a355617bb5121c73f6b": {"username": "Daqu40", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Daqu40", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/902beb20bdc49a355617bb5121c73f6b/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "4bdf6585b2dc7e4dd2fbfc9d111f5936": {"username": "Jeff Berlin", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Jeff Berlin", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/4bdf6585b2dc7e4dd2fbfc9d111f5936/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "23994e564476642c25d62992cbfffee3": {"username": "dominic", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "dominic", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/23994e564476642c25d62992cbfffee3/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://blog.ecairn.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "57f872b5b656aeabfdff34dc3fb11809": {"username": "Jack Carlson", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Jack Carlson", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/57f872b5b656aeabfdff34dc3fb11809/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://jebers.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "4d2cd2f81f482f900133e8f0ceaaccac": {"username": "Jeroen", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Jeroen", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/4d2cd2f81f482f900133e8f0ceaaccac/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "49c1377216e6dff0b498f3a088b43060": {"username": "motley416", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "motley416", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/49c1377216e6dff0b498f3a088b43060/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "1ccc0cc0f53a2b505e37932c861246b9": {"username": "Omar Shahine", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Omar Shahine", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/1ccc0cc0f53a2b505e37932c861246b9/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.shahine.com/omar", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "874e24e94078668bdea203405e1f9390": {"username": "Court", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Court", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/874e24e94078668bdea203405e1f9390/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "1314b91d539307cad770d7e7b38c29cd": {"username": "Bill", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Bill", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/1314b91d539307cad770d7e7b38c29cd/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "7d5faecbdf9bb7987013008c6bf6b307": {"username": "Mark", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Mark", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/7d5faecbdf9bb7987013008c6bf6b307/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.foodorpoison.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "5fa313b1ae32d9f80787c02aba84eb85": {"username": "Dizavin", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Dizavin", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/5fa313b1ae32d9f80787c02aba84eb85/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "6c735fade6f1cd9ad910a4d8db645fa1": {"username": "Timothy Post", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Timothy Post", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/6c735fade6f1cd9ad910a4d8db645fa1/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.timothypost.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "09a2c7328eab7de859828452b4b870d8": {"username": "Tim", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Tim", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/09a2c7328eab7de859828452b4b870d8/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "e84865c258848d792e58ffc34af0a65e": {"username": "Markus Kobler", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Markus Kobler", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/e84865c258848d792e58ffc34af0a65e/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.inquisitive-mind.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "91be528841d10ce6837ef5b94b1b03b6": {"username": "German Girl", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "German Girl", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/91be528841d10ce6837ef5b94b1b03b6/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "5a988be3065950950be6e7c9c3a61ac5": {"username": "livepaola", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "livepaola", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/5a988be3065950950be6e7c9c3a61ac5/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://livepaola.wordpress.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/anonusers/68/879/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "6dc8e7f5418988ab57886dcd2dae9b71": {"username": "David Novakovic", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "David Novakovic", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/6dc8e7f5418988ab57886dcd2dae9b71/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://dpn.name/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "64a8b62c30d5253fb7b48692607e368f": {"username": "Geert", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Geert", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/64a8b62c30d5253fb7b48692607e368f/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "JamesGecko": {"username": "JamesGecko", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "JamesGecko", "url": "http://disqus.com/JamesGecko/", "registered": true, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://frem.wordpress.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": 5, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/users/33/3325/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "frem", "is_remote": false, "verified": true, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "f07b6143bad3a5845640341333245c99": {"username": "Daryl Mather", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Daryl Mather", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/f07b6143bad3a5845640341333245c99/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.consultingpulse.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "d986b6b864733f5797a547fa6df939fd": {"username": "Boone Gal", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Boone Gal", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/d986b6b864733f5797a547fa6df939fd/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.womensdeals.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "igorthetroll": {"username": "igorthetroll", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "igorthetroll", "url": "http://disqus.com/igorthetroll/", "registered": true, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.igorthetroll.com/blog", "remote_domain": null, "points": 1, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": true, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "943c1a6b956d499054fe1de733ee50d0": {"username": "hshawjr", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "hshawjr", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/943c1a6b956d499054fe1de733ee50d0/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/anonusers/132/4972/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "d4590258812ce2bc344a87fa47f97d8d": {"username": "lane h", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "lane h", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/d4590258812ce2bc344a87fa47f97d8d/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "3c892332ca3a112a142b6b74f5cfe276": {"username": "Francis Ocoma", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Francis Ocoma", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/3c892332ca3a112a142b6b74f5cfe276/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://hackmybrain.blogspot.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "c423a5257d4760e92edd39f8a37f2a14": {"username": "danconover", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "danconover", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/c423a5257d4760e92edd39f8a37f2a14/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "e129f470a465e1c03d4ee445ebefee9e": {"username": "Beth Granter", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Beth Granter", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/e129f470a465e1c03d4ee445ebefee9e/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://bethgranter.wordpress.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "ba6244a25b439cabef7f84cc14f5ac8e": {"username": "Reginald Swain", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Reginald Swain", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/ba6244a25b439cabef7f84cc14f5ac8e/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "c9a12215a3100145c4fa22e3a64c5afd": {"username": "Mike O.", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Mike O.", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/c9a12215a3100145c4fa22e3a64c5afd/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "bd0285929b98707cf4d7a813be0f45bb": {"username": "jake", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "jake", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/bd0285929b98707cf4d7a813be0f45bb/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "Karoli": {"username": "Karoli", "tumblr": "karoli", "display_name": "Karoli", "url": "http://disqus.com/Karoli/", "registered": true, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.drumsnwhistles.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": 43, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/users/2183/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": true, "flickr": "drumsnwhistles", "twitter": "http://twitter.com/Karoli", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "39c812c3a4c91af718ca68bf5e3eb258": {"username": "Adam", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Adam", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/39c812c3a4c91af718ca68bf5e3eb258/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.chernow.org/blog", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/anonusers/11081/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "b60ac49c083397df15d9b9bebf3f607e": {"username": "Tyler Hayes", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Tyler Hayes", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/b60ac49c083397df15d9b9bebf3f607e/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.thetylerhayes.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/anonusers/156/9596/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "15626198d552b84b0d0d787f8ec124a7": {"username": "Maurice", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Maurice", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/15626198d552b84b0d0d787f8ec124a7/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://hauntingthunder.wordpress.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/anonusers/15/1430/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "120dc93779e5a3b8890bdaf65bff277e": {"username": "Bast", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Bast", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/120dc93779e5a3b8890bdaf65bff277e/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "3e737ec9a31d0f76a8b9e8bf5f4ffb97": {"username": "Christopher", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Christopher", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/3e737ec9a31d0f76a8b9e8bf5f4ffb97/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/anonusers/11/4632/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "6f9ae5fc90bf002dd0562a0a8ff998ee": {"username": "Bob Evan&#39;s Sausage", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Bob Evan&#39;s Sausage", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/6f9ae5fc90bf002dd0562a0a8ff998ee/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "c329a61aaa77653b5792791b790b8abc": {"username": "Mary K", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Mary K", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/c329a61aaa77653b5792791b790b8abc/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://youmakeitup.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "5c4c110acb7195d75f5253753a7ab2ec": {"username": "John", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "John", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/5c4c110acb7195d75f5253753a7ab2ec/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "0d369f1d42c1c677e16777b75f58a2a5": {"username": "david", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "david", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/0d369f1d42c1c677e16777b75f58a2a5/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "4a28366caeba8e8a6840ec0c689de0b8": {"username": "Bob", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Bob", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/4a28366caeba8e8a6840ec0c689de0b8/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "1491b29f75c26aebfcc3cf364bb56714": {"username": "Barb Chamberlain", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Barb Chamberlain", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/1491b29f75c26aebfcc3cf364bb56714/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.biketoworkbarb.blogspot.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "6eb83a6a409feda48ca2aed089cc09c9": {"username": "G. Lautour", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "G. Lautour", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/6eb83a6a409feda48ca2aed089cc09c9/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "82d7f7609669eea274c206378e3ac29c": {"username": "Sardar Mohkim Khan", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Sardar Mohkim Khan", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/82d7f7609669eea274c206378e3ac29c/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://startupmeme.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/anonusers/66/9513/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "3ad16e1e37e5cd52634963e9b8f453bf": {"username": "Mark", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Mark", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/3ad16e1e37e5cd52634963e9b8f453bf/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "db863db0e6dfd5b032b5a8c440c7f0ca": {"username": "Tagertux", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Tagertux", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/db863db0e6dfd5b032b5a8c440c7f0ca/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "ebf23ccfce17f07d21f16d4322896405": {"username": "Steve Kayser", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Steve Kayser", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/ebf23ccfce17f07d21f16d4322896405/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://Skbigm.googlepages.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "dacc532e02e9acf8e5d527330a2041ec": {"username": "theoatwa", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "theoatwa", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/dacc532e02e9acf8e5d527330a2041ec/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "7e5be414b188ec0de7f9818f5117055d": {"username": "Kevitivity", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Kevitivity", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/7e5be414b188ec0de7f9818f5117055d/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.kevitivity.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "0112c487966acaaef7a680214a3d9a50": {"username": "RickB", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "RickB", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/0112c487966acaaef7a680214a3d9a50/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "fc01b6575368251c1a310ed6ea5d6a03": {"username": "Eric Rice", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Eric Rice", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/fc01b6575368251c1a310ed6ea5d6a03/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://ericrice.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/anonusers/868/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "840fc6edec4f376cc299258384dc7a77": {"username": "Doug Swanson", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Doug Swanson", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/840fc6edec4f376cc299258384dc7a77/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "2cbc2155a389fc5fdeb2e8f673639ba3": {"username": "Dinesh", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Dinesh", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/2cbc2155a389fc5fdeb2e8f673639ba3/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "dd77f0d5dcfb054b7c3085c083e56aae": {"username": "Dave", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Dave", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/dd77f0d5dcfb054b7c3085c083e56aae/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "d96d5848c7579f054baceeae9a944df1": {"username": "tom", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "tom", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/d96d5848c7579f054baceeae9a944df1/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "d88ed1ae2ba73e78dadf571d400f0aca": {"username": "Trooper", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Trooper", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/d88ed1ae2ba73e78dadf571d400f0aca/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "2d17351d2e6de4f34e30cf9f7beb537f": {"username": "Ben Israel", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Ben Israel", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/2d17351d2e6de4f34e30cf9f7beb537f/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "02d8a4311a1eb6a9b6de8f6ba00f8e07": {"username": "trueRevelator", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "trueRevelator", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/02d8a4311a1eb6a9b6de8f6ba00f8e07/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "69508d56d6f19e31adc0c3f062f262a2": {"username": "Rowan", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Rowan", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/69508d56d6f19e31adc0c3f062f262a2/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "ee8fbf068dcc44f4e59209a46e59aab4": {"username": "bb", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "bb", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/ee8fbf068dcc44f4e59209a46e59aab4/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "1f8e7b0610bf12287e239d32c2a9ae66": {"username": "dc crowley", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "dc crowley", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/1f8e7b0610bf12287e239d32c2a9ae66/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://doncrowley.blogspot.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/anonusers/7894/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "b321b4ca693d46acd86756a6c0f74506": {"username": "Mike", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Mike", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/b321b4ca693d46acd86756a6c0f74506/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "dc4c6628701237c290b7817ccd724336": {"username": "scottbourne", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "scottbourne", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/dc4c6628701237c290b7817ccd724336/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "e405c10a6756bee6ba21b00b1b8a723a": {"username": "Jason Hargrove", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Jason Hargrove", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/e405c10a6756bee6ba21b00b1b8a723a/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.twitter.com/jasonhargrove", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "a1068609037bedc3f677e92bcfd24d71": {"username": "hey", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "hey", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/a1068609037bedc3f677e92bcfd24d71/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "17d51fa2ab254888be548f2d9f926676": {"username": "Nick Savides", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Nick Savides", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/17d51fa2ab254888be548f2d9f926676/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://nsavides.wordpress.co/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "cee17d590423b408a3410167ba6ae5b4": {"username": "Bob", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Bob", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/cee17d590423b408a3410167ba6ae5b4/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://ladow.net/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "8f8ff21a67437febebc70afd19364e95": {"username": "David", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "David", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/8f8ff21a67437febebc70afd19364e95/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "a89ae471ae837e4ca9c88305b786f10e": {"username": "Ken", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Ken", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/a89ae471ae837e4ca9c88305b786f10e/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "bfff4ce559f1e2ed6ce85f4bd7f005ca": {"username": "Bob", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Bob", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/bfff4ce559f1e2ed6ce85f4bd7f005ca/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "bfb42fbed4d1898c7173043e7cbd6c5b": {"username": "Christopher Galtenberg", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Christopher Galtenberg", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/bfb42fbed4d1898c7173043e7cbd6c5b/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://chris.gaia.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "9292a428ee362f465aba543be9336999": {"username": "sun secrets", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "sun secrets", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/9292a428ee362f465aba543be9336999/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://considerations.wordpress.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "bd3034323468a94fe3c68be3778b7b34": {"username": "thePuck", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "thePuck", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/bd3034323468a94fe3c68be3778b7b34/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.thepuckwrites.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "34d7654f472cc61610c381acba4c68c0": {"username": "Kai Davis", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Kai Davis", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/34d7654f472cc61610c381acba4c68c0/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.ninjakai.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "4c38d9545a241a89134ca58616f1aa79": {"username": "Bryce Raley", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Bryce Raley", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/4c38d9545a241a89134ca58616f1aa79/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "8ce789aff4eb6390ff8ef02ea72d82c5": {"username": "Gene", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Gene", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/8ce789aff4eb6390ff8ef02ea72d82c5/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "793ec996e4a45eded030c6febdf40b36": {"username": "j", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "j", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/793ec996e4a45eded030c6febdf40b36/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "958a273a248bb3c909af65523936fd37": {"username": "Trish | eMail Our Military", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Trish | eMail Our Military", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/958a273a248bb3c909af65523936fd37/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://emailourmilitary.blogspot.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "f137402d2101c82c1488d3470be2dbcf": {"username": "Ian McDonald", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Ian McDonald", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/f137402d2101c82c1488d3470be2dbcf/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.icsmultimedia.com.au/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "3553f5e0db0fd1ec4e40a932a2d8f5b3": {"username": "Robert Scoble", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Robert Scoble", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/3553f5e0db0fd1ec4e40a932a2d8f5b3/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://scobleizer.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/anonusers/4069/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "1ee49803c934d4034f5022fee8097806": {"username": "Sue", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Sue", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/1ee49803c934d4034f5022fee8097806/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://sue.polinsky.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "e6404236ea41a221bb8448e5f3ed8a7b": {"username": "Ben", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Ben", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/e6404236ea41a221bb8448e5f3ed8a7b/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "d2bd3133f0f6153afd4232d0714f3367": {"username": "Marc Dierens", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Marc Dierens", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/d2bd3133f0f6153afd4232d0714f3367/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://blogs.sun.com/socialandmore", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "1544312f3deaa0403b11fce202dd62cb": {"username": "JB", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "JB", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/1544312f3deaa0403b11fce202dd62cb/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "7af38e83c9ae2f0d3a4a1b052dde817a": {"username": "Dul", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Dul", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/7af38e83c9ae2f0d3a4a1b052dde817a/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://chroniqueba.blog.lemonde.fr/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97": {"username": "Jeff Berlin", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Jeff Berlin", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "7f6291e8344b594235e57b843fc05d9b": {"username": "Christopher Coulter", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Christopher Coulter", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/7f6291e8344b594235e57b843fc05d9b/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "38ceba0379a4ff63eaf79b3fadd2ad0c": {"username": "Jim Satterfield", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Jim Satterfield", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/38ceba0379a4ff63eaf79b3fadd2ad0c/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://itsthe21stcenturystupid.wordpress.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "8e6531e9b0f395b2168d254df0c2d4ac": {"username": "Nick Taylor", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Nick Taylor", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/8e6531e9b0f395b2168d254df0c2d4ac/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.ikostar.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/anonusers/95/8281/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "024e0fb13c37d2378e3c2b8a089450be": {"username": "Ted", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Ted", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/024e0fb13c37d2378e3c2b8a089450be/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "83164e7c627059ddb5fb53e446f619cc": {"username": "Chaz", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Chaz", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/83164e7c627059ddb5fb53e446f619cc/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://charlesfrench.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "5373917527cb464832d0116c69de5787": {"username": "Gary", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Gary", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/5373917527cb464832d0116c69de5787/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "dad05a1073aca20c092ff4aa90c6b881": {"username": "Dayngr", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Dayngr", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/dad05a1073aca20c092ff4aa90c6b881/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.dayngrzone.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/anonusers/3/6271/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "4bf45c11d0cf7547d39acf1668fb6d3e": {"username": "Bob", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Bob", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/4bf45c11d0cf7547d39acf1668fb6d3e/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "19a0f7b2edfd72f69a401fe2e41054d8": {"username": "Phil Baumann", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Phil Baumann", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/19a0f7b2edfd72f69a401fe2e41054d8/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://philbaumann.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/anonusers/8/1404/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "05cee85a1f8f0d0134e7470212a742d7": {"username": "dlambert", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "dlambert", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/05cee85a1f8f0d0134e7470212a742d7/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://blog.componentoriented.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/anonusers/28609/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "ae9fb8542fc05d3a26cbe603bdfaec7d": {"username": "torabora", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "torabora", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/ae9fb8542fc05d3a26cbe603bdfaec7d/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "3e494d013a33899d9b76b157f8b030c3": {"username": "Derek K. Miller", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Derek K. Miller", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/3e494d013a33899d9b76b157f8b030c3/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.penmachine.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/anonusers/4009/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "193286e7b495a187941e9f180dd59048": {"username": "Jeremy", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Jeremy", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/193286e7b495a187941e9f180dd59048/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "bfa96e31dfdce240a15dfb906fb0cacf": {"username": "Max", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Max", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/bfa96e31dfdce240a15dfb906fb0cacf/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "b7d059aa44b9f93bcff608b817d5f9fa": {"username": "yag", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "yag", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/b7d059aa44b9f93bcff608b817d5f9fa/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "f2e6fb5943572f325eb2f91784be75b3": {"username": "chaze77", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "chaze77", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/f2e6fb5943572f325eb2f91784be75b3/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://chaze77.wordpress.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "2172953e7331b97659b8872634be69a8": {"username": "Alz", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Alz", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/2172953e7331b97659b8872634be69a8/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "f89b745cb3983fb1c02bca74a4f6d077": {"username": "francinehardaway", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "francinehardaway", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/f89b745cb3983fb1c02bca74a4f6d077/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.stealthmode.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/anonusers/13604/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "98440694bc9208fba43c88865b0fbb6b": {"username": "Andrew Feinberg", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Andrew Feinberg", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/98440694bc9208fba43c88865b0fbb6b/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "79baf09587ee8c99a49c2ce4f1118f68": {"username": "I am Canadian", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "I am Canadian", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/79baf09587ee8c99a49c2ce4f1118f68/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.wahms.net/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "0cbcffbb3f4bbf189054c8c6fa1d4d1a": {"username": "Joe Programmer", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Joe Programmer", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/0cbcffbb3f4bbf189054c8c6fa1d4d1a/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "bcce384d24853e53296899fa917bc85b": {"username": "Matt Abrams", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Matt Abrams", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/bcce384d24853e53296899fa917bc85b/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.linkedin.com/in/mattabrams", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "fc9eab3b2b2c3199a193e8c65c3aae1b": {"username": "vinnie mirchandani", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "vinnie mirchandani", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/fc9eab3b2b2c3199a193e8c65c3aae1b/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.dealarchitect.typepad.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "71e1bf7d8b02e29f6e685f68d19dc020": {"username": "Bruno M.", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Bruno M.", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/71e1bf7d8b02e29f6e685f68d19dc020/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "5220e95e76e93cc79d4c242d3e67ce42": {"username": "brian", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "brian", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/5220e95e76e93cc79d4c242d3e67ce42/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "efa5b767ad276870368af0abf0f2e6b4": {"username": "lisa( kystorms)", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "lisa( kystorms)", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/efa5b767ad276870368af0abf0f2e6b4/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://kome-rocks.santacruzdreamz.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "99bb8b48e3c2f4775e34936c09933e1a": {"username": "Larry Magid", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Larry Magid", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/99bb8b48e3c2f4775e34936c09933e1a/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.pcanswer.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "25fcb8c74428da42dcbfc1d9f94273cd": {"username": "Mack D. Male", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Mack D. Male", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/25fcb8c74428da42dcbfc1d9f94273cd/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://blog.mastermaq.ca/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "9e63c4aee8da86f0c91b10a9516566d9": {"username": "Americasadmirer", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Americasadmirer", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/9e63c4aee8da86f0c91b10a9516566d9/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "Eyebee": {"username": "Eyebee", "tumblr": "eyebeemania", "display_name": "Eyebee", "url": "http://disqus.com/Eyebee/", "registered": true, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://wildcabbage.net", "remote_domain": null, "points": 1, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/users/5/8363/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "eyebee", "is_remote": false, "verified": true, "flickr": "eyebee", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "angsuman": {"username": "angsuman", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "angsuman", "url": "http://disqus.com/angsuman/", "registered": true, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://angsuman.taragana.net/archive/who-do-you-support-as-the-next-us-president", "remote_domain": null, "points": 1, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": true, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "807649270a68e4bc6d489d6fec81fdb1": {"username": "Dawn", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Dawn", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/807649270a68e4bc6d489d6fec81fdb1/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/anonusers/10591/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "f18261069ad8030b2f468942b819f44f": {"username": "Terry", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Terry", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/f18261069ad8030b2f468942b819f44f/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "9fad2b00fd789b8d50f35183aba2356f": {"username": "Matt", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Matt", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/9fad2b00fd789b8d50f35183aba2356f/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "a49547cfcf076eea1bd5c14e9344a301": {"username": "Ben Finklea", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Ben Finklea", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/a49547cfcf076eea1bd5c14e9344a301/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.volacci.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "55d7966fbb7048e33cc56ea07e7b6fd4": {"username": "fracardi", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "fracardi", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/55d7966fbb7048e33cc56ea07e7b6fd4/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://fracardi.wordpress.com/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "224c44f39fa3714d5b41eba9ae0c8e14": {"username": "RayD", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "RayD", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/224c44f39fa3714d5b41eba9ae0c8e14/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.creatid.eu/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "581c88bb35d3dc86d546efd1c447aefe": {"username": "thierry do Brasil", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "thierry do Brasil", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/581c88bb35d3dc86d546efd1c447aefe/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://roget.biz/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/anonusers/24/2330/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "2805d8e0a206e9e3465bf064c1b498dc": {"username": "ma", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "ma", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/2805d8e0a206e9e3465bf064c1b498dc/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "34bd8cd1740a4c18dcf5ca730ac415eb": {"username": "Guiwald", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Guiwald", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/34bd8cd1740a4c18dcf5ca730ac415eb/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.guiwald.info/", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}, "1307c085040bf4109f83d4dd50927c6c": {"username": "Four20", "tumblr": "", "display_name": "Four20", "url": "http://disqus.com/guest/1307c085040bf4109f83d4dd50927c6c/", "registered": false, "linkedin": "", "blog": "http://www.digg.com/users/four20", "remote_domain": null, "points": null, "facebook": "", "avatar": "http://media.disqus.com/uploads/anonusers/5/5431/avatar92.jpg", "delicious": "", "is_remote": false, "verified": false, "flickr": "", "twitter": "", "remote_domain_name": ""}}, "forum": {"use_media": true, "name": "Scobleizer", "streaming_realtime": true, "url": "scobleizer", "allow_anon_post": true, "reactions_enabled": true, "reply_position": 1, "show_avatar": true, "allow_anon_votes": false, "disqus_auth_disabled": false}, "realtime_enabled": true, "request": {"username": "", "is_global_moderator": false, "sharing": {}, "sort": 4, "forum": "scobleizer", "is_initial_load": true, "is_authenticated": false, "timestamp": "2009-12-17_09:57:57", "remote_domain": "", "page": 1, "is_moderator": false, "display_username": "", "points": null, "subscribe_on_post": 2, "moderator_can_edit": false, "is_remote": false, "is_verified": false, "missing_perm": "locked"}, "realtime_paused": false, "posts": {"9711104": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Blah, you can't ever even believe any Scoble post, it's all controversy for controversy sake, no such thing as negative press, when no ones talking about you, kick up some outlandish blog fit, which will result in a 360 backtrack if the heat gets too hot, but traffic for the craziness and traffic for the apology...blah blah blah.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-21_00:45:44", "killed": false, "user_key": "7f6291e8344b594235e57b843fc05d9b", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711105": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "So why do you want to make the US more like France or Canada?  If you want a socialist paradise, you can move to one of those places.<br><br>Do you have any concept that there are people who live in the US because they like the freedoms found here (economic and otherwise)?<br><br>No offense, but you can move to your socialist haven of choice.  Liberty-loving people don't have that option.  Do you really want to put our backs against the wall and shove your socialism down our throats?  Do you think we will stand for it?<br><br>I encourage you and your ilk to keep pushing and see what happens.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-21_01:42:19", "killed": false, "user_key": "1544312f3deaa0403b11fce202dd62cb", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711106": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "More accurately, you're not a straw man.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:29:00", "killed": false, "user_key": "JamesGecko", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": false, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711107": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Algorithmic, there are, as with everything, advantages and issues with a 2 party system.  In Belgium we have a splintered political system, which leads to a government always needing 4 to 6 parties to form a government, which makes it basically impossible to govern properly.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:30:30", "killed": false, "user_key": "d2bd3133f0f6153afd4232d0714f3367", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711108": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Or, put another way, do you think your post is more being part of the problem or being part of the solution?", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:27:42", "killed": false, "user_key": "66cd59488b94ea94ec0ae388801fe505", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711109": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Robert, great answer.  FWIW, I think a post about why you are a human and what that means to you would be a more positive post than this one, and would have just as much impact.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:28:59", "killed": false, "user_key": "66cd59488b94ea94ec0ae388801fe505", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711110": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Robert, I think it's very easy and a bit of a cop-out to write what you're not.  I'd be much more interested in the answer to the question, OK if you're not an American, what are you?", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:26:33", "killed": false, "user_key": "66cd59488b94ea94ec0ae388801fe505", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711111": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Deva: a human.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:27:22", "killed": false, "user_key": "3553f5e0db0fd1ec4e40a932a2d8f5b3", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711112": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "You need to read Ann Coulter's books so that you can get your head screwed on straight Robert.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_20:38:04", "killed": false, "user_key": "db6d6c4f77cf8036b5d8f7695da5872c", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711113": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "If you really cared about those less fortunate than us, you would do everything in your power to stop the government from taking care of them.  They've done a stellar job all along, right?  Social security, veterans affairs, welfare, Freddie and Fannie... show me one thing that they've not screwed up!<br><br>I want the government out of my home, out of my bedroom, out of my pocket book, and out of my life.  The last 8 years have been government out of control, screwing up everything.  Now you want the next 4 years of someone promising to do more.<br><br>Amazing.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_20:43:01", "killed": false, "user_key": "d0f0fb6ac9472944ef2cd4a3009d5c98", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711114": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "dc.. Isn't the majority of America tolerant liberalism?", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_09:24:05", "killed": false, "user_key": "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711115": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "So there are comments praising the lad and then there are those who wish he was aborted by his mom or does not live in this country.. Shows the temperament of the readers extreme views. At irrational behavior as the ability to think has been clearly lost.  What Mr.Scoble expressed in his writings is a personal view based on his observations.<br>What most people who are so virulent in their attack are missing is that they are just as angry at their situation but don't have the ability to accept responsibility for the malaise we have as they are also the ones who have supported it without thinking.<br>America has for the last 40 years been at work dismantling the very structures we have fought hard to erect since the 1930's.<br>Before the 1930's we had a very stoic class system that was basically the Rich versus the Poor.<br>People will forget that there was no Minimum wage, there were no five day 40 hour work weeks, paid vacation, Occupational Safety etc etc.<br>We have had to fight very hard to get those basic things you take for granted.<br>The last forty years have been spent trying to strip slowly everything you have and take you back to the good old days of the 1920's.<br>To enable that process the American Businesses and European Businesses have a great partner the Chinese Communist Party which is able to provide the labor that is needed to produce the goods without any worker rights in place. This gives a very good bargaining power to the Businesses to dismantle all the things you have taken for granted all along, with the threat that if you don't accept they will move shop to China primarily.<br>So the last 40 years you have been comatose in your ability to think and have been sold this myth that Taxes, regulations and Government are the cause for your misery, that markets can do the best job for you and guess what they have, you have lost your ability to have any bargaining power and will accept whatever is thrown to you.<br>Sure lets blame one or the other party, but truly the blame lies with us people and for being unable to think and be drunk on crap.<br>If you want to change all this then wake up and start to THINK.<br>Instead of berating Scoble on how awful he is or not cuz he expressed his views, express yourself and THINK clearly.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_09:15:08", "killed": false, "user_key": "21554c55662fc8e13cc5de6f77805230", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711116": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Awesome post.  One thought though - as a self-proclaimed socialist feminist who feels feminism has a bad reputation, I feel it's important to reclaim the concept and mould it to what I believe.  Similarly, as a non-stereotypical female, I refuse to be thought of as an exception when I show traditionally male accomplishments (e.g. logical thinking, climbing trees...) - as a female exhibiting these characteristics, I am redefining 'feminine'.  Perhaps you can keep your views, tell the world you ARE American, and thereby change people's view of what constitutes an American.<br><br>In response to people criticising you for talking politics on a tech blog, to refer to the quote 'the personal is political', there should be no platform that is unsuitable for talking politics, because it affects every area of our lives and our existence.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_09:14:51", "killed": false, "user_key": "e129f470a465e1c03d4ee445ebefee9e", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711117": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Well stated, Robert. Wasn't America supposed to be 'The Land of the Free' and the guardian of liberty?<br><br>And then somehow it ended up torturing Iraqis in their own jail, and holding people in Cuba illegally for seven years without trial.<br><br>America set out to be the voice of progress, but something serious went wrong along the way. Who would have thought that a nation comprised of immigrants and refugees from all nations would one day become so xenophobic and narrow-minded?<br><br>Or that a neo-Conservative 'religious' right wing would one day condemn science whilst tolerating starvation across half of the planet? Who would have thought that America would become isolationist enough in its outlook to alienate even its closest allies in Europe?<br><br>Something's gotta change. And I'm optimistic that it will. Keep up the good work.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-21_04:58:57", "killed": false, "user_key": "8687b4ec6f79e6019c57dda6a7b75d36", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711118": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "What an amazing ongoing display of ignorance by so many people.<br><br><blockquote><br>Palin also made a point of mentioning that she loved to visit the \"pro-America\" areas of the country, of which North Carolina is one. No word on which states she views as unpatriotic.<br></blockquote><br><br>From the <a href=\"http://voices.washingtonpost.com/the-trail/2008/10/17/to_avoid_being_depressed_palin.html?hpid=topnews\" rel=\"nofollow\">Washington Post</a>, not Jon Stewart. Or here it is from the <a rel=\"nofollow\">Huffington Post</a>.<br><br>Extremists of any kind suffer from what I think of as an ideological lobotomy. But I decided long ago that the Republican Party had drifted too far to the right for me to be able to vote for them in good conscience. My suspicions began when Reagan promised us that we could jack up defense spending, cut taxes and still balance the budget. And then there were these Southern conservative extremist ministers he was kissing up to. It just went downhill from there, IMO.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-21_01:50:43", "killed": false, "user_key": "38ceba0379a4ff63eaf79b3fadd2ad0c", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711119": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I am not an American that will be quiet anymore, I too am tired of those telling me what or how I should believe.  :)", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:36:57", "killed": false, "user_key": "943c1a6b956d499054fe1de733ee50d0", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711120": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Too much patriotism always seems to create problems, so it's actually nice and funny to see you are able to proudly say \"I\u2019m not an American\".  I am looking forward to your next post where you say \"I don't live in the greatest nation in the world\" ... because I wish people (especially politicians) should stop saying that! :)", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:55:34", "killed": false, "user_key": "64a8b62c30d5253fb7b48692607e368f", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711121": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I truly despair, seeing these comments of happy agreement.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:37:16", "killed": false, "user_key": "bfb42fbed4d1898c7173043e7cbd6c5b", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711122": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "If you're not an American, please feel free to leave.<br><br>I am Joe.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:37:19", "killed": false, "user_key": "0cbcffbb3f4bbf189054c8c6fa1d4d1a", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711123": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Your commentaries on technology are usually interesting and well-informed.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:54:48", "killed": false, "user_key": "088c71ae273b0b3182fefc3027e862e8", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711124": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Geert: it's very hard to say lately that I live in the greatest nation in the world. But, there's a backlash against bloggers who aren't positive enough in today's tough economic times, so I probably won't write that post. :-)", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:57:15", "killed": false, "user_key": "3553f5e0db0fd1ec4e40a932a2d8f5b3", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711125": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "During the last 8 years, America drifted too much to the right. But the beauty of the america and the american system is that it is flexible and we are on the path to adapt and correct that mistake. To do so, we need to put the politics, stereotypes, religions apart and come together and get ready for 4-8 years or hard work.<br><br>The big difference between Europe and America is the work ethics. Americans are very hard working and flexible. Europeans are on the other hand locked into a set of privileges and benefits they expect and have a hard time adapting to a changing world. But like you pointed out and Powell pointed out in his speech today, there is probably a right balance. It will be interesting to see once Obama wins where he stands regarding that balance...there is always risk of over-shifting to the left...which given the current situation could be disastrous.<br><br>Note: I am actually not American, but proud to live in America.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:58:56", "killed": false, "user_key": "edwink", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": false, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711126": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I subscribed to scobleizer on google reader to hear what you say about technology. I am unsubscribing because that is no longer what you do and I don't need to hear the depressing whines anymore.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:59:49", "killed": false, "user_key": "ea727709adadd23c3ab50080ea46e35f", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711127": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Good thing you're not being satirical at all ;)<br><br>I wrote a similar post at my own site, except instead of \"I'm not an American\" I was essentially contending \"I'm not ignorant.\" Because I AM an American, and it's the people who believe all that crazy shit you wrote about above that aren't American.<br><br><a href=\"http://thetylerhayes.com/2008/10/07/ignorant-america-vs-progressive-america/\" rel=\"nofollow\">http://thetylerhayes.com/2008/10/07/ignorant-am...</a>", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_18:02:12", "killed": false, "user_key": "b60ac49c083397df15d9b9bebf3f607e", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711128": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Christi: now YOU are an American! By the way, I'll have a video of a tech startup up tonight.<br><br>I really hate people who don't like to hear from people who have opinions and stuff. Good bye, you just made my readership smarter.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_18:03:49", "killed": false, "user_key": "3553f5e0db0fd1ec4e40a932a2d8f5b3", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711129": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "The world is watching and knows that the time has come for the USA to become \"America\" again, with all its generosity and positive spirit. So we are not so much in despair. Despite those pitiful eight years, your nation has done extraordinary deeds for others in the past and will continue to do so. Hopefully Robert, you are the kind of American that your country needs.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_18:15:10", "killed": false, "user_key": "6eb83a6a409feda48ca2aed089cc09c9", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711130": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Republicans in charge? Really? Has anyone told Pelosi and Reid that they're Republicans?<br><br>I support nuclear power - and extracting our own oil rather than relying on hostile or unstable foreign nations for our economy's lifeblood. I know, because science has moved on from the religious mud-slinging of a few years ago, that the controversial stem cell research is greatly overrated: there are other ways to achieve those ends. I believe costs should largely be born by those who incur them, rather than trying to dump them on the shoulders of \"the rich\".<br><br>Oh, and as for \"doing pretty well\", the bailout is actually *bigger* this side of the Atlantic (I'm genuinely not American, give or take a grand-parent: I live in the UK) - and I know first hand that the much-vaunted \"universal\" health care is greatly overrated: I'd far rather pay something for it and be able to get a CT scan within a year, rather than wait multiple years to get a \"free\" government service instead.<br><br>Of course, the two-party system isn't as bad as it might seem either, when you look at countries where a party with just 40% of the vote gets unchecked control of the government, outvoting those who represent the other 60% of us. The bizarre false dichotomy between pro-life and pro-choice is something we manage to avoid, of course (instead, there was a democratic debate which laid out the rules for abortion, and can adjust those rules in future as the will of the people evolves) but it does keep most of the genuine lunatics out - we're stuck with actual terrorists (IRA affiliated) winning elections!", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_18:19:18", "killed": false, "user_key": "16d48334bc778cdb73271c72c953a86f", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711131": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Robert,<br><br>During these years, lots of people around the world are looking to US more and more scared and hopeless. But we also know that US is full of great people as you.<br><br>You are American, Robert! Keep going and fight for the great values you mention. They are 100% consistent with the history of your great country!<br><br>Francesco", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_18:09:27", "killed": false, "user_key": "55d7966fbb7048e33cc56ea07e7b6fd4", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711132": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I made a word cloud of this...<br><a href=\"http://wordle.net/gallery/wrdl/257307/Robert%2527s_blog_post\" rel=\"nofollow\">http://wordle.net/gallery/wrdl/257307/Robert%27...</a><br><br>Sorry dude, but that makes you very much an American... belief and a (frankly astonishing) level of self-focus are peculiarly American traits - well, in the West at least.<br><br>I'm British / UK. If I re-wrote this using my own country names, I'd disintegrate with embarrasment after about the 3rd line. We simply don't go on about ourselves this much.<br><br>Not that I disagree with you mind. I agree entirely. 100%. But you are American.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_18:06:57", "killed": false, "user_key": "8e6531e9b0f395b2168d254df0c2d4ac", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711133": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "\"Socialism is a philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy; its inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery.\"<br>-- Sir Winston Churchill<br><br>(do you see yourself in that quote?)", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-27_02:24:29", "killed": false, "user_key": "bfff4ce559f1e2ed6ce85f4bd7f005ca", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711134": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Brilliant Robert and here's my reaction to the comments you received.<br><br>About the people who unsubscribe to your stream because you dare to espouse your political beliefs - good riddance. This recently happened to me and during the purge I got rid of lots of assholes who don't deserve access to the free information I pass out every day. And within a few days after the purge, I actually had MORE followers. ANYONE who would unfollow or unsubscibe because of your political beliefs is UNAMERICAN. It's very possible to trust, respect, work with, buy from, play with, associate with, be friends with and gain knowledge from people we disagree with.<br><br>And for those who say anyone who doesn't kiss the republican ring should leave America - screw that. Those of us who love America need to stay here and rescue it from the likes of Karl Rove. I plan to stay and fight.<br><br>Again - I love your post. And the courage and spirit with which it was written. And I'd consider it an honor to be attacked by that UNAMERICAN right wing asshole Michelle Malkin.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_08:51:33", "killed": false, "user_key": "dc4c6628701237c290b7817ccd724336", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711135": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "If your not an American, then move to Canada, they have national health care. We don't like socialism here.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_00:22:38", "killed": false, "user_key": "d88ed1ae2ba73e78dadf571d400f0aca", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711136": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Robert you are way off the mark. You need a vacation.<br>Are you insinuating that if someone does not agree with one or more of your points, they are Not An American?<br><br>The transfer of wealth argument is PATHETIC and is one of the most UnAmerican things that can be suggested.<br><br>Early on I did miss your focus on technology and technological issues, but now you just rant nonsense. You may win the battle, but will ultimately lose the war. You are blind and lost. Pathetic.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_00:49:15", "killed": false, "user_key": "5bac7e588a9845314575b2b8fbabc374", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711137": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Guessing the FBI is now reading your blog, regularly...", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_00:51:35", "killed": false, "user_key": "193286e7b495a187941e9f180dd59048", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711138": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "My Dear Mr. Scoble.<br>I/ve monitored  your works for a very long time, and it is you, and Shel's book, along with Mrs. Blood that got me at  the ripe age of 40 something blogging, something that was not part of my \"Telecom\" culture.<br>Your thoughts and expression truly reflect that you are an American in the sense that your psyche reflects the vision that your founding fathers charted for this nation.<br>Perhaps those that have brought this great nation to dought itself aren't Americans. You, in my humble opinion, are indeed an American./antonis hontzeas", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_00:55:29", "killed": false, "user_key": "9292a428ee362f465aba543be9336999", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711139": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Jeremy: LMAO.<br><br>As for the dudes who left negative comments, I wonder what country they think they have existed in for their whole lives.  I believe in socialized goods, you know: good roads, police, firemen, the postal service, public schools, universities, scientific research so we don't drive our own species off a cliff, etc.  I too am not American.  If only I could find a way not to use them, then I can be American.<br><br>Has anyone seen my dog Plurality?  I feel like beating something up, or meaner yet, shouting the implicitly violent logic of binary-reductionism at it.  Was that a joke?  Dammit---not an American.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_01:24:55", "killed": false, "user_key": "64c9b71310898a05c04917efc1508fc9", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711140": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "\"Guessing the FBI is now reading your blog, regularly\u2026\"<br><br>Oh please...ya the FBI better get all over Scoble....he is a serious threat to homeland security. Give me a break. Some people take this sh@t way too seriously. The article was a creative way to get an opinion across and it gets good rating. Go read the Blogging 101 guide book....be edgy, be controversial....it gets traction.<br><br>I commend the dude for speaking his mind...tech geek blogger or not, democrat or not.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_01:31:41", "killed": false, "user_key": "3ad16e1e37e5cd52634963e9b8f453bf", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711141": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "When it comes to writing a business blog, I don't see the value of having political rants.  It's a polarized country.  Why turn off half your potential audience?  I don't like seeing political crap from either side when I'm reading a blog that's supposedly about something else.  Haven't we gotten enough already?", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_01:50:51", "killed": false, "user_key": "807649270a68e4bc6d489d6fec81fdb1", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711142": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I guess I must not be an American 'cause I think.<br><br>-Adam", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_01:57:03", "killed": false, "user_key": "39c812c3a4c91af718ca68bf5e3eb258", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711143": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I find it interesting to see the diversity of opinions here.<br><br>But some really missed the point I was trying to make, which is that if you try to talk about the issues you just get called names. Note that I didn't call anyone names. I called myself names, if anything. I just put out my point of view on the issues.<br><br>But many people here decided to call names. I think that says more about them than it says about me.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_02:06:39", "killed": false, "user_key": "3553f5e0db0fd1ec4e40a932a2d8f5b3", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711144": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Dawn: yes, indeed, why talk about the issues? Why not take a stand.<br><br>Yes, my blog should just be press releases that make everyone feel good.<br><br>Sorry, that's really lame. And if 50% get pissed off, maybe that is a good thing!!!!", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_02:08:22", "killed": false, "user_key": "3553f5e0db0fd1ec4e40a932a2d8f5b3", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711145": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Stand back!!!<br>I feel a spray coming on!! This is what America must do to join the real world.<br>First compusory lifetime voter registration and like Australia compulsory voting. (get them all off their fat asses).<br>Next citizen initiated referendum at election time.<br>A good dose of socialism for the common good.<br>Abolish all religions . none of them are true.<br>Although the eye of a needle seems appropiate for the american version.<br>Tax share turnover - abolish the rest.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_02:21:42", "killed": false, "user_key": "f18261069ad8030b2f468942b819f44f", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711146": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Taking a stand is great.  But what's wrong with picking the hills you stand on?  Why do we have to step over political crap everywhere we walk?<br><br>You \"take a stand\" on Twitter and on FF all the time.  Why do you have to do it here, too?  I don't think it's lame to suggest that there is a time and place for politics and that it need not be 24/7 everywhere we go.<br><br>Endlessly yelling at each other and pissing each other off doesn't accomplish anything.  Quite the opposite, I'd say.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_02:47:37", "killed": false, "user_key": "807649270a68e4bc6d489d6fec81fdb1", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711147": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Colin Powell definitely does not sound like an American. For starters, he uses the word \"intellectual\" far too heavily.<br><a href=\"http://livepaola.wordpress.com/2008/10/20/general-powell-obama-endorsement-next-time-go-easy-on-the-i-word-please/\" rel=\"nofollow\">http://livepaola.wordpress.com/2008/10/20/gener...</a>", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_02:51:31", "killed": false, "user_key": "5a988be3065950950be6e7c9c3a61ac5", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711148": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Well I'm not sure I agree or disagree.  However I believe that was your aim with this post.  It's not so much where you stand, but why.  Encourage people to think, question their decisions and beliefs.<br><br>Living in South Africa I've seen what the blind following masses are capable of.  If anyone is going to make a stand... at least know what it is that you are standing for.<br><br>Fascinating post, even more interesting are the comments.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_03:38:57", "killed": false, "user_key": "0e0e7f8d2d5505c06f658d46c0c0eb70", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711149": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Kudos Robert!", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_03:55:39", "killed": false, "user_key": "f3b41bc009a402017febfab746770bc5", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711150": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Kudos Robert, I'm not American too ..", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_04:21:05", "killed": false, "user_key": "8eadfe94725119b6bde5c003704cd13f", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711151": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "The problem with wealth redistribution is that it's in direct contrast with  the American values of self reliance, self determination and self respect.  These are values the Democratic party of the 50's used to uphold.  These are also the values that have kept America competitive for so long.  What is hard work and taking chances worth if the US \"overlord\" is there to wipe your butt and take care of you, cradle to the grave?  These values came from our respect for the human spirit - and America's essence IS human spirit.  The nanny-state would only hinder that spirit and create slaves of the state.<br><br>There are more problems with wealth redistribution - namely it penalizes the successful while being anti-capitalist.  Furthermore, in America, people don't tend to stay in the lower 40% of our economy.   Few Americans work minimum wage jobs all of their lives.<br><br>Economically, wealth redistribution is a disaster any way you look at it.  History anyone?", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_04:55:16", "killed": false, "user_key": "7e5be414b188ec0de7f9818f5117055d", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711152": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Steve Kayser said: \"I have. Go live in a socialist Europe. They\u2019ll gladly take you as NOT AN AMERICAN. Wait in line for months to get your socialized health care.\"<br><br>In which European country did you live? In France or in Germany, you just don't need to pay the doctor when you need to go there (and I tried in Italia, it's the same). You just present your health card, and you have nothing else to do.<br>In Germany, you don't pay your medicine more than 5 euros, in France, you just don't pay them: you present your prescription, your health card, and you get your drugs.<br><br>I don't say social system is the best, but I'm sure a US a bit more social would be better. An Europe a bit more liberal too, I guess.<br><br>@ Robert Scoble: You're American, but with a different vision that the common one. And I'm sure your country need people like you to be able to change things, and to make this land a better place to live.<br><br>PS : Sorry for my bad english.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_05:20:47", "killed": false, "user_key": "34bd8cd1740a4c18dcf5ca730ac415eb", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711153": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Hey scobble<br><br><br>1- if you can think freely and expose your though: because you are American<br>2- like many American muslims you married in us  freely with the woman you want...because you are american<br>3- if you convert to the religion you want it's because you are American..go to Iran and try to convert to christian<br>4- Go to a muslim country and look how do they shoot at immigrants..if you can tell your opinion..it's because you are American<br><br>what a shi###  post you had written<br><br>take care", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_05:33:53", "killed": false, "user_key": "2805d8e0a206e9e3465bf064c1b498dc", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711154": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "hear hear!", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_05:38:28", "killed": false, "user_key": "4d2cd2f81f482f900133e8f0ceaaccac", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711156": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Hi Robert, I'm not an American. I'm observing the U.S. elections here from Malaysia. And I think most American's are so blinded by the politics that they miss the issues that are truly important. Most non-Americans I know, agree with me.<br><br>I truly don't understand how people can vote for a warmonger, vote against helping the poorer sections of economy, vote against healthcare that is not dependent on greedy insurance and pharmaceutical companies, vote for giving more money to Big Oil, vote for placing more guns in the hands of dangerous people, and.... vote for SARAH PALIN. I truly don't understand.<br><br>I do wish you the best of luck. The gut feeling is that come November 4, the Joe's will pick McCain and then whine for another 8 years.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_05:57:48", "killed": false, "user_key": "2d17351d2e6de4f34e30cf9f7beb537f", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711157": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I like what you say but you need to practise what you preach!<br><br>Why not unblock me on Friend Feed and Twitter and I will give you the respect that you deserve.<br><br>Robert, we all have differences in opinions, learn how to respect others!", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_06:11:35", "killed": false, "user_key": "igorthetroll", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": false, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711158": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Hi,<br>Good post about american facts, and great timing of course!<br>I'm not an American, I'm from Europe and I just want to bring some details to what you say about it.<br>First of all, I'm glad you consider Europe as a country but it is not.<br>Considering that, even if from your point of view it's the same, believe me that there are great differences between European countries.<br>Second of all, when you talk about Europe and socialism, believe me, on this one: you are an american! Why? Because you take all the european countries and put them in the same case based on some stuff you may have heard (health care, public school...), again, economic systems can be very different within Europe...<br>I'm french and we are not drived by a socialist government. If you take Sweden, here you have your dreamed economic system called \"social-democrate\".<br>Finally @Bryce Raley: please don't throw figures out of context. Suicide rate's just \"normal\" in Sweden, urban legend to say it's higher because of seasons/work/tax rates. The highest are Japan and France (because we are NEVER happy) :)<br>Swedish are paying a lot of taxes but what you didn't said is: best health care system and accessible to everyone, financial help during studies in decent buildings (study and living), and the salaries are much higher than other european countries.<br>Maybe, instead of checking the Business criteria, you can check what make most of people happy of living: decent salary, very high employment rate, clean cities (have you ever visited Stockholm?), close to nature...Well, Sweden may not be the first economic country in the world but aside the cold, it's an example for a lot of other ones.<br><br>Good post anyway, even if what you should have said is: I'm not a redneck... ;)", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_06:41:19", "killed": false, "user_key": "120dc93779e5a3b8890bdaf65bff277e", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711159": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "\"I'm not an American, I'm Canadian\"... last time I checked, Canada and USA were in the same continent or has the polar meltdown already changed the shape of the continent?<br><br>and please, somebody explains me why TommyC says \"The transfer of wealth argument is PATHETIC\"?<br><br>That happens in many countries in Europe and the living standards over there are higher than in USA. May be the transfer of wealth is not the only reason, but it plays a main role.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_06:59:20", "killed": false, "user_key": "02d8a4311a1eb6a9b6de8f6ba00f8e07", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711160": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "\"But many people here decided to call names. I think that says more about them than it says about me.\"<br><br>I don't think they missed the point. We get that poor Robert is being called names - even though this post is doing exactly the same thing in a backhanded way. However you say the comments are interesting. Please tell me why if you believe socialism is a noble cause, why is there no response to my request for you to cut a check for half your net worth to the goverment to so they can spend it as they see fit? And why don't you take the next step and ask the the government what they want you to do for an occupation. Perhaps you could better server society as something else that has nothing to do with technology? After all why should you have a choice of occupation if it does not serve the society well? If the world can go forward without Russert, surely it can go foward without another interview from Fast Company? Or better yet, maybe Fast Company can be government run??? Surely the government can figure out what reading best suits the society as a whole???", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_07:04:22", "killed": false, "user_key": "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711161": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "You see Robert posters like me and some of others have tried to engage you in dialog through our comments. Because it seems that what you have done here is take a page from the Carville book - what you do is design phrases to put people with a different viewpoint or curiousity on the defense - phrases like \"You don't have a heart if you don't support universal healthcare\" etc.. Its the same strategy with this post - I am calling you unamerican for having XYZ viewpoint. And this is not conducive to intelligent dialog. What you have done here is revealed yourself to be an elitist.  The tone seems to be that if you do disagree with me then you are an ignorant cro-mag who resorts to name calling. Now onto the big picture. Political parties love this. Another convert. Another fool and his money soon to be parted. Because you see Robert the game is this: Politicians fool you into believing that you and he/she believe the same thing. And they do, if the money is right.  The goverment no longer represents the people as evidenced most recently by the bailout bill.  Its all about living off the tax payer, sitting at mahonagy desks with leather chairs, pontificating on the senate/house floor by day and sipping congnac and taking checks at night.  You've been taken. And you don't even know it.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_07:51:19", "killed": false, "user_key": "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711162": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I'm not American (literally)... but you're welcome in OZ anytime...<br><br>And to all those people that think taxes are the root of all evil -- what's the alternative? No taxes? OK, no taxes then... so who pays for the infrastructure? Who pays for the cops? Who pays for the judges? Who pays the military? Who pays for anything? You? Are you going to police your own streets? Treat your own injuries? Pave your own roads? Good luck. Might sound nice in la-la-land, but in reality you're just blinded by your short-sighted greed.<br><br>Like it or not, taxes are the foundation of a civilized democracy. It is the price we pay to live comfortably and feel safe.<br><br>Go Scoble!", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:24:49", "killed": false, "user_key": "69508d56d6f19e31adc0c3f062f262a2", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711163": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Oxhorn: Republicans have been in charge for the last eight years. They also are the ones that are claiming that I'm not American and that you are American. So, no, you don't get to play this game.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:23:34", "killed": false, "user_key": "3553f5e0db0fd1ec4e40a932a2d8f5b3", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711164": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Welcome to the rest of the world's population - even though we have our problems too...", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:18:07", "killed": false, "user_key": "224c44f39fa3714d5b41eba9ae0c8e14", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711165": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Could not agree more.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:21:54", "killed": false, "user_key": "0268f72f94e6a50e3f667ce0fc5d0dd1", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711166": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "When I was in the Army I thought I was defending the America of the Constitution so that its freedoms could be preserved. These days I wonder. So perhaps this Vietnam vet isn't an American either, since I agree with the points you present.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:21:57", "killed": false, "user_key": "57f872b5b656aeabfdff34dc3fb11809", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711167": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Thanks. Now can we get back to the tech. I live in the UK and I'm sick of the election already. I can't imagine what it's like over there.  But if you keep covering it I might as well read a political blog...", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:09:57", "killed": false, "user_key": "db863db0e6dfd5b032b5a8c440c7f0ca", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711168": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Awesome Robert - if you move to Australia I can hook you up with some awesome people and show you kangaroos :)", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:11:01", "killed": false, "user_key": "2d9567a5dc6d38988355ee3e8c0429f2", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711169": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Very well said, Robert!<br><br>Sounds to me like you could very well be a Canadian!  :)", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:11:17", "killed": false, "user_key": "79baf09587ee8c99a49c2ce4f1118f68", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711170": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "You're always welcome up here in Canada, Robert!", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:11:45", "killed": false, "user_key": "25fcb8c74428da42dcbfc1d9f94273cd", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711171": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Bravo Robert!  Nicely said...", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:14:48", "killed": false, "user_key": "bcce384d24853e53296899fa917bc85b", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711172": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Goodness me Robert....you sound like a British liberal type like me.....<br>You can come over here if you like :-)", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:16:10", "killed": false, "user_key": "a7777a66bce5131a9609b21815e56b3c", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711173": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Tagertux: our politics and our technology gets all mixed together. Remember what happened to Microsoft when they tried to ignore politics?", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:16:56", "killed": false, "user_key": "3553f5e0db0fd1ec4e40a932a2d8f5b3", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711174": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Oh dear, how else can this go?<br><br>I have a history of voting Republican. I must not be an American.<br>I'm not voting this time because both candidates suck. I'm REALLY not an American.<br>I believe that wealth should belong to those who earn it, that women DON'T have the right to murder, just like all people don't have the right to murder, that none of us, regardless of sexual orientation, have the right to marry whomever we love, that all faiths, even popular ones, should be tolerated, parodied, mocked, and ridiculed equally, instead of having certain ones that are ok to make fun of and others that are taboo, that all people--regardless of \"minority\" or \"majority\" status, should have an equal chance to get into college, live where they want, send their kids to whatever school they want and receive the same financial benefits, instead of categorizing people based on race or religion and handing out swag accordingly.<br><br>Boy, I must really not be an American.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:17:34", "killed": false, "user_key": "d2dc0c35d8875fd85f64f196651d59d5", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711175": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I am not a listener of right-wing talk radio or one who parrots its doctrine. I am an American, and I do not surrender my proud title.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:09:36", "killed": false, "user_key": "bfb42fbed4d1898c7173043e7cbd6c5b", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711176": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Does this mean you're going to put a border fence around your house and issue passports and currency?<br><br>And could you make me an ambassador so I can park wherever I want? Mmmm...diplomatic license tags...", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:08:06", "killed": false, "user_key": "98440694bc9208fba43c88865b0fbb6b", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711177": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Well said.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_16:48:21", "killed": false, "user_key": "34d7654f472cc61610c381acba4c68c0", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711178": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "You mean that you converted to Islam, not Muslim, right?<br><br>And, probably more accurately, that you went through the motions of converting to Islam in order to get married, right? :)", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_16:49:23", "killed": false, "user_key": "3e494d013a33899d9b76b157f8b030c3", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711179": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "heh, that's funny. \"I am not American\". when that phrase is said, it really could be followed with \"I am a Canadian\" and it wouldn't be that far off target.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_16:49:52", "killed": false, "user_key": "5fa313b1ae32d9f80787c02aba84eb85", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711180": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Hear hear!  Well said.<br><br>Signed, another \"not an American\"", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_16:50:41", "killed": false, "user_key": "Karoli", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": false, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711181": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "\"Even worse, I converted to Muslim so that we could be married in an Iranian ceremony.\"<br><br>I think you mean, I converted to \"Islam\".", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_16:51:57", "killed": false, "user_key": "1ccc0cc0f53a2b505e37932c861246b9", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711182": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Great post, Robert. I have to say that, increasingly, it seems that anything that speaks of reason, ethics, or even basic fairness (the fairness of kindergarten, not Mill's \"On Liberty\") is \"unAmerican\".", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_16:51:59", "killed": false, "user_key": "bd3034323468a94fe3c68be3778b7b34", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711183": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Are you prepared to use aggression (the initiation or the threat of physical force) to achieve what you believe is \"fair\" in wealth redistribution?", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_16:52:50", "killed": false, "user_key": "aca81ab5bf69a4626c91edc811cea208", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711184": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Derek and Omar, yeah, sorry, you are right. I was typing too fast. Fixed that.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_16:54:15", "killed": false, "user_key": "3553f5e0db0fd1ec4e40a932a2d8f5b3", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711185": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "gRegor: I don't believe the taxation system is \"intimidation or the threat of physical force.\" I'm not an American.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_16:57:22", "killed": false, "user_key": "3553f5e0db0fd1ec4e40a932a2d8f5b3", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711186": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I'm a Canadian and this post reminds me of our famous \"I am Canadian\" Ad campaign....in reverse. Glad to hear there are some Americans that are willing to say what they think and not be afraid to offend their country a bit.<br><br><a href=\"http://www.vimeo.com/36597\" rel=\"nofollow\">http://www.vimeo.com/36597</a><br><br>Mark", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_16:58:44", "killed": false, "user_key": "3ad16e1e37e5cd52634963e9b8f453bf", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711187": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I really just wish we had more than two choices for president. The two-party system only serves to polarize issues and separate the country.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_16:59:00", "killed": false, "user_key": "c510febb9bed68b5cc4a09f076701e0f", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711188": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "You are an American. So am I: a first-generation American and proud of it.<br><br>It's too bad that so many Americans have lost their way. It's partly a symptom of a rapidly changing world.<br><br>Don't be too down on yourself. Wearing you down is a part of the plan of psychopaths and heretics who are butchering our country.<br><br>When times get rough, most people lose their minds to mental illness. Change can be too stressful for some people. In an attempt to establish something solid, they often turn to things which give them the illusion of security: false religions, drugs, political extremism.<br><br>Don't let a suffering culture deprive you of your inalienable right to critical thinking.<br><br>I'm as frustrated as you. But I'm frustrated BECAUSE I'm an American. (But it's getting lonely.)<br><br>This may be a time to be sick to your stomach, but it's not a time to quit.<br><br>Grab a beer, Scoble. The game's not over. (:", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:02:07", "killed": false, "user_key": "19a0f7b2edfd72f69a401fe2e41054d8", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711189": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Sorry just one little nitpick on an otherwise great post: one does *not* need to be Muslim to marry in an Iranian ceremony. I'm sure your wife will confirm that Iranian does NOT automatically= Muslim. One can be Iranian and not Muslim. However, you would be right in saying that you do have to convert to Islam if you wish to marry in a *Muslim* (not Iranian) ceremony.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:02:13", "killed": false, "user_key": "0f5ab3b0c3f51bbb828b9e1a40af2afa", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711190": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Whoo Hoo!!! I've been Scobleized again!!!!<br><br>You are such an inspiration and I appreciate your willingness to stand up and state your unamerican views...<br><br>not just because I share them...<br>not just because I was born and bred in these not-so-united states...<br><br>Because it's just so old-tyme AMERICAN!!!!<br><br>THANK YOU!<br>\u2013Mary K<br><br>\u00b8..\u00b7 \u00b4\u00a8\u00a8)) -:\u00a6:-<br>\u00b8.\u00b7\u00b4 .\u00b7\u00b4\u00a8\u00a8))<br>((\u00b8\u00b8.\u00b7\u00b4 ..\u00b7\u00b4 -:\u00a6:-<br>-:\u00a6:- ((\u00b8\u00b8.\u00b7\u00b4* Light<br><br>EXPECT MIRACLES!", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_17:05:06", "killed": false, "user_key": "c329a61aaa77653b5792791b790b8abc", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711191": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Good on yer Jesse I couldn't have put it better myself!!", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-11-04_00:52:51", "killed": false, "user_key": "f18261069ad8030b2f468942b819f44f", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711192": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "good post made for a great reading of mine", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_23:59:27", "killed": false, "user_key": "57b159bb5ac6bcf0e269c80c704987f6", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711193": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Wow.  I guess maybe I'm too conservative or just a brainwashed American or something but I took this as ridiculously smug and petty.  I live in NC and realize what cronyism, high tax and poor executive leadership (by both parties) causes.  I doubt you got much insight into in your visit.<br><br>One articulate, compassionate, hopeful liberal comes along and folks like you just suck it all in and get emotional.  You forget that this isn't new.  Behind all these idealistic, positive promises is the same group of (mostly) corrupt, self-serving people that will gladly take your vote, your money and your freedoms all because you don't like Bush but don't remember Carter.  I'm disappointed at all the blind populism without regard to history in diatribes like these.<br><br>Personally, I suggest a \"reboot\" - vote ALL the incumbents out, implement term-limits, cut federal budgets by at least 30%, implement a fair/flat tax.  That should be enough to get things back on track.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_00:02:07", "killed": false, "user_key": "f726edd0f556a748514a61a938b2a310", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711194": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Nice post, Robert.<br><br>Obviously a lot of the posts here are from people who will not ever acknowledge the extent to which the Republican Party has an overt campaign of using language to demonize all who disagree with them as somehow un-American.<br><br>Perhaps Newt Gingrich's 1996 GOPAC memo will refresh their memories: <a href=\"http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article4443.htm\" rel=\"nofollow\">http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/articl...</a>.<br><br>Note that the word \"taxes\" is on the bad list. As several people have pointed out here, taxes are the price of a civil society: roads, schools, garbage removal and disposal, public health, and more.<br><br>Suggested reading for those who are interested in a content analysis of the Bush White House and its applications of \"political fundamentalism\": David Domke's \"God Willing: Political Fundamentalism in the White House, the 'War on Terror,' and the Echoing Press.\"<br><br>Warning: Very scholarly. As in, he did the research and demonstrates how Bush used the easily understood dichotomies so common to fundamentalists of all kinds-- good/evil, with us/with the terrorists--to dominate the public discourse and media coverage in the wake of 9/11.<br><br>@BarbChamberlain", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_00:15:01", "killed": false, "user_key": "1491b29f75c26aebfcc3cf364bb56714", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711195": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Your post really touched me and I will say that rarely happens. I too am not an American and I happen to agree with most of your thoughts.<br><br>I believe in pluripotent stem cell research because it has the potential to cure the currently incurable diseases and bring happiness and joy to millions or people worldwide.  No longer will we have to suffer or see our close ones suffer continuously and without hope for cure. Never before in the history of science has one technology offered so much hope and promise in alleviating the world of diseases. if that is not God's will then I don't know what is. But frankly I don't have a hotline with God like apparently Jr. Bush has. I just feel that what is good for humanity and living beings at large should be in accordance with the will of any good being, whether is omnipotent or not.<br><br>BTW: I created an anonymous survey ( <a href=\"http://bit.ly/uspresidentialsurvey\" rel=\"nofollow\">http://bit.ly/uspresidentialsurvey</a> ) to know people's choice on the next US president. Would you like to participate?<br>You can find the results so far in the link associated with this comment.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_23:27:33", "killed": false, "user_key": "angsuman", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": false, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711196": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Well said, good points. Come down to Aussie mate - we do have the right idea!!<br><br>They don't call it \"The Lucky Country\" for nothing.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_23:12:32", "killed": false, "user_key": "f07b6143bad3a5845640341333245c99", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711197": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I think, IN GENRERAL, you are wrong. You are entitled to you ropinion, of course, but you preach \"tolerance\" and yet you're telling people how to do things.  I agree with some points, but it would take a conversation to go through all of the issues.<br><br>On the other hand, I will point to one article on the problems of Europe.  They are rather severe. I have a friend who was in Belgium for a few years with his family and he couldn't wait to get out.<br><br>This article explains why and probably explains why some countries are moving away from what some people call \"Modern Liberalism\".<br><br><a href=\"http://www.pvv.nl/index.php?option=com_content&amp;task=view&amp;id=1310&amp;Itemid=1\" rel=\"nofollow\">http://www.pvv.nl/index.php?option=com_content&...</a>", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_22:39:59", "killed": false, "user_key": "2172953e7331b97659b8872634be69a8", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711198": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I love you, Robert.  By the current definition of American, I'm not one either. Divorces, affairs, paying for a teen-aged foster child's abortion, and  willingness to pay taxes for things like education and health care for others...they all disqualify me.  Those narrow definitions are what get us into trouble.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_22:21:39", "killed": false, "user_key": "f89b745cb3983fb1c02bca74a4f6d077", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711199": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Poor idea, worse execution.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_22:05:35", "killed": false, "user_key": "024e0fb13c37d2378e3c2b8a089450be", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711200": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "You going to regret this one in a few days, if you don't already. From the logic of your email, you believe we should separate our politics from our faith among other things. Well you should have two blogs- one where you comment with your opinions- and this one where you stick to covering tech stuff. You're very good at what you do, but you just alienated some of your \"tribe\", by ranting about your political opinions.<br><br>\"He who believes religion and politics don't mix, understands neither one.\" Who said it? How about Mahatma Ghandi.<br><br>You're certainly not Unamerican for believing whatever you choose to believe and even by discussing it. That is very American. However, I'm sure you would be intolerant of my beliefs because they don't shore up with yours. I'm a pro life Libertarian and evangelical Christian. So to you that probably translates to bigot.<br><br>On your socialist comments. Take a trip to Sweden. They are spiritually bankrupt and have a high rate of suicide. They fly to the UK for serious medical procedures. Their tax rates are near 65% plus a 20% VAT. I've traveled Sweden from east to west and have helped host swedes here in the states.  They are amazing people. I love spending time with them. Not a lot of new business in Sweden- basically none. The employment law is nuts. Not a lot of people banging down the door to get into Sweden and these other socialist European countries you speak highly of. If they are so great, I'd apply for citizenship. I love people who praise other countries from the comfort and freedom of US soil. Our wonderful republic is only 200 years old. That's a small flicker of light in the 6000 years of recorded history. It wouldn't take much to put that flicker out. We're heading down that road with our big government, declining freedoms and loss of our moral compass. Good morals is good economics. Don't believe it- do business with crooks and tell me how it goes.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_22:01:51", "killed": false, "user_key": "4c38d9545a241a89134ca58616f1aa79", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711201": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Gee, millions of Americans gave their lives defending freedom so you could cutely repeat \"I am not an American\". I get it. You are not an American. You certainly are a first class ass though.<br><br>Here is some free advice, leave America forever and don't let the door hit you in the ass. There are hundreds waiting to get in here so hurry up and make room.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_21:34:08", "killed": false, "user_key": "ae9fb8542fc05d3a26cbe603bdfaec7d", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711202": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Robert, rather than being a human, you should think of yourself as a citizen, like all of us, a citizen of planet earth.<br><br>We can no longer live our insular, localized lives.<br><br>The actions of the USA of the last eight years have had a profound effect on the rest of the world. Depending on what side of the fence you sit politically, you can argue whether those have been good or bad.<br><br>But the point is, and whether its the invasion of Iraq or the recent financial disasters, everyone can see the influence across the globe, and how that shows we are all citizens of one community.<br><br>Therefore, you aren't American anymore, I aren't Australian. These are simply labels. We are all citizens of one home, one globe, one community, and we have to ensure the actions we take do the right thing by our home. And that comes right down to how we vote, and why we should vote.<br><br>In the course of human history, this election, whichever way it goes, will have a significant effect.<br><br>I suspect that one side of politics in the US still lives in America. We had the same problem here (in Australia) until last year, when we made the change.<br><br>As long as we taunt people as being unAmerican or unAustralian, we will continue to do damage economically, socially and environmentally to our home.<br><br>When we can call someone's behaviour or opinions \"unEarthian\", then we'll know we're on the right track.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_21:35:30", "killed": false, "user_key": "831c1ce23f49fd2e6279826284c9cdb6", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711203": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "If you are for socialism, truly you are unAmerican. You are supporting a system which cannot be implemented under out Constitution and requires a widespread infringement of personal liberty. Socialism is Slavery - every single socialist is either a wanna-be slaver or a slave to the government.<br><br>Socialism is slavery, and every single slaver is Hostis Humani Generis.<br><br>You want socialism? You want war. You want civil war without limits if you try to tear down the Constitution any more than has already been done. Socialism requries the destruction of personal liberty. Socialism birthed Naziism - birthed Communism - between them they murdered over 130 million of their own people and murdered tens of millions more since their inception. Yeah, that's un-American, chump. You better believe it.<br><br>You say you want stem cell research, but you really don't. You want Embryonic stem cell research because that way you get to murder children in the womb and be paid handsomely for offending people you hate - Christians and others - those who believe in their faith and don't convert for convenience's sake (unlike you).<br><br>Stem cells from ovaries and testes? That's fine with everyone from both sides of the political spectrum, works, and doesn't cost a life - but you are fixated on stem cells from murdered children so you can pretend your political opponents are \"evil\" and hurt them deeply at the same time. But you steep youself in bigotry to ignore facts and push a lie.<br><br>You ascribe horrific tendencies to your political opponents and ignore the fact that no opponent of ILLEGAL immigration has anything but admiration for LEGAL immigration - you pretend otherwise and in so doing, show again your inability to discern the truth. You show contempt for those who show respect for your country (legal immigrants), and protect those that spit on our laws (illegal immigrants) .<br><br>As for border enforcement, you're against it.  A country that does not control its borders is not sovereign. And that's what you really want - uncontrolled borders, a surrendering of our sovereignty - a destruction of our country.<br>Hoping to destroy our country's sovereignty by surrendering our borders is outright despicable.<br><br>The rest of your sorry screed is filled with twists, lies, and self-deception. You need to believe that your opponents are the same as the ridiculous stereotypes you hold in your hate-filled heart. I pity you.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_21:39:04", "killed": false, "user_key": "ba6244a25b439cabef7f84cc14f5ac8e", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711204": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Great post. Really enjoyed talking with you this weekend.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_21:22:17", "killed": false, "user_key": "c423a5257d4760e92edd39f8a37f2a14", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711205": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Robert, I fear you've jumped the shark with this post. Your frustration and fear is permeating your every post.<br><br>The simple fact is that you are American. Isn't it great to live in a place where you can express your views as such? It's very likely the political change you want will occur in a few short weeks. Why aren't you happy?<br><br>May I suggest that you take a vacation and come back in 2009 with a fresh attitude and outlook.<br><br>P.S. I miss your focus on technology and technological issues.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_21:34:04", "killed": false, "user_key": "1314b91d539307cad770d7e7b38c29cd", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711206": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "\"I believe that informed citizens should vote for candidates not whether they are pro or anti-Abortion, but whether they actually are smart and whether they have enough life experiences to do the job well. I\u2019m not an American.\"<br><br>Oh, you're quite American, all right. That has nothing to do with the fact that you support the murder of human beings...oops, I mean, the discarding of insignificant, inconvenient, unwanted tissue, which just so happens to have its own DNA separate from its mother. But if all you want is for people to acknowledge that you're American, then worry no more. YOU'RE AMERICAN, SCOBLEIZER!<br><br>See, I like making people happy.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-21_05:47:43", "killed": false, "user_key": "3c892332ca3a112a142b6b74f5cfe276", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711207": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Hey Robert - My hero is Steve Jobs. I truly admire the man. The products his company produces set the standard for other companies to shoot for. He is truly my hero.<br><br>However, he's not perfect. He put Al Gore on Apple's Board of Directors which I found completely nauseating. I wouldn't put Al Gore in charge of the local PTA.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_21:20:37", "killed": false, "user_key": "db6d6c4f77cf8036b5d8f7695da5872c", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711208": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I just can't let this go. So your argument is that if I disagree with one of your bullet points, then I am calling you Un-American. So in essence you are giving me the virtual finger for having a different viewpoint for which you applaud the Constitution for allowing in your first bullet point?<br><br>You are so out of your element here bud.<br><br>BTW anyone that follows politics knows Powell is not a conservative. So trying to use him to validate your arguments is very very weak.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_21:19:15", "killed": false, "user_key": "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711209": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I will pray for you Robert.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_21:09:57", "killed": false, "user_key": "5c4c110acb7195d75f5253753a7ab2ec", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711210": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Scoble: My old college professors told me I wasn't a real American. My Democratic friends say my beliefs are un-American. Everyone on the internet says I'm un-American. Who's in power is irrelevant--if you can play this \"pity-me\" game, so can I, because ALL people think that those who don't believe like they do are  \"un-American\". Republicans do not hold exclusive claim to this bigotry. To deny this inherent bias in all Americans is just being blind.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_21:12:32", "killed": false, "user_key": "d2dc0c35d8875fd85f64f196651d59d5", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711211": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I've just removed you from my RSS subscriptions: since the days when you had insight into Microsft and the tech world, you've become less and less relevant.  the politial ramblings and the rest of has become unberable.  I can't remember the last time I read more than the headline of one of your posts let alone saved or shared it.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_20:35:19", "killed": false, "user_key": "5373917527cb464832d0116c69de5787", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711212": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "\"I believe that SOME wealth should be redistributed from rich people to other places to improve our society. Like paying for schools, building roads, or even helping all people get access to health care. To me that seems fair because it\u2019s our system that enabled people to build wealth. \"<br><br>OK Robert, put your money where your mouth is... Please cut a check of half your net worth to the government to redistibute as they see fit. When I see that, then I will believe this is how you really feel. Sell your wife's BMW of yours. Sell your home. Empty your childrens college fund. Today. I want to read about it tomorrow. Put up or shut up.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_20:35:51", "killed": false, "user_key": "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711213": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Don't you think that we all live on earth. Nobody is neither American, nor French, Brazilian neither. I am an earthian, so we all are.<br><br>First of all. What is an American. Somebody who lives in America, or lives in in the United States? Are shall you start calling your self I am not an United Statian!", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_20:37:17", "killed": false, "user_key": "581c88bb35d3dc86d546efd1c447aefe", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711214": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Hell truly has frozen over. I find myself in near complete agreement with Scoble.<br><br>I'm an eleventh generation American with dual citizenship to a country that's considered a \"social democracy\". I've lived equal parts of my life in both countries. I've seen the best and the worst that both had to offer. America could learn alot from such countries that offer, in exchange for higher taxes, free education, free to extremely affordable healthcare and other services. We pay high taxes here and get next to nothing. People with health insurance go bankrupt here. You *are* your credit rating. The rich get richer and hey, if you fuck up, the taxpayers will bail your ass out.<br><br>Any American who drives on public highways and bridges, takes books out from the library, sends their child to public school, visits a park or calls 911 when they need a cop or a fireman enjoys the benefits of socialism.  Unamerican? Evil? Don't use them.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_20:47:35", "killed": false, "user_key": "d4590258812ce2bc344a87fa47f97d8d", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711215": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I agreed with more in Robert's article that I've heard from anyone in either of the campaigns.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_20:50:41", "killed": false, "user_key": "Eyebee", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": false, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711216": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "BTW, When are you going to start thinking for yourself?", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_20:54:09", "killed": false, "user_key": "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711217": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "One more thing, I am unsubscribing from you - not so much that I disagree with your viewpoint which you are entitled to (even though you never gave any thought to the comments that urged you to do more research before did another one of these posts),  it is that I can no longer trust you or your content or that of your employer, now that I know you have a major political axe to grind. It is a shame too, I've been reading you for years and years.  My Fast Company subscription ran out about a month ago and the renewal card was sitting here to remind be to re-up.. I just pitched it to the pail. Goodbye Robert, I wish you well.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_21:08:00", "killed": false, "user_key": "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711218": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Robert.. I've been reading you for years and say your best technology blogging was while you were at MSFT.<br><br>These days it seems I need to move on... reading your political views and other rambles is really frustrating... definitely not going to be at the top of my home page after today.. there are many other informative blogs that I'm happy to replace you with.<br><br>Where next for Scoble?  Hosting a talk show on NBC maybe?<br><br>OH... I'm an American :)", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_20:25:59", "killed": false, "user_key": "e191a7f98a76362834372a52889cc3f7", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711219": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "STUPIDITY ON STEROIDS<br><br>Wow. Nothing like blowing your credibility sky-high with this twittering stupidity on steroids.<br><br>NON-HATING HATER DISPUTES<br><br>You just called people that oppose your views as haters on Twitter. Why would you do that? I'm not a hater, I've followed you for a long time, but I totally disagree with you. I'm a hater now? As are the others?<br><br>LACKS AN EVENT HORIZON<br><br>Are we haters because we disagree with your illogical, puerile, pedantic, solipsistic assertions or because of your black hole ego which lacks an event horizon?<br><br>MENTAL FLOSS-DROSS ALBATROSS<br><br>No wonder FastCompany is going down the tubes faster than fast- you're a colossal albatross of mental floss-dross dragging them down as quick as you can type.<br><br>BEAT IT<br><br>If, as you proclaim, you're NOT AN AMERICAN - beat it, go to another country where you can be NOT AN AMERICAN. I'm sure we can, and will, raise money for your airfare, as long as you vow never to come back. My email address is at the bottom if you want to take me up on it.<br><br>WHEN IT REALLY MATTERS<br><br>I'm glad some real Muslims corrected your post. Funny how you screwed up something as simple - yet so  important as that. Actually - not so funny-  when it really matters on a human level you display a perfectly shallow non-command of the facts.<br><br>YOUR EXCREMENTAL VISION NEEDS AN OPTORECTOMY<br><br>I've read your posts for a while and never before detected a need for an optorectomy  (disconnection of optic nerve from rectum, to repair a crappy outlook on life).  But you're \"I'M NOT AN AMERICAN post displays a one-bit brain with a parity error. Check to make sure all your BYTES aren't odd.<br><br>HAVE YOU EVER LIVED IN EUROPE?<br><br>I have. Go live in a socialist Europe. They'll gladly take you as NOT AN AMERICAN. Wait in line for months to get your socialized health care. Redistribution of wealth is socialist - and a quick path down to a little town called Utopia (AKA Communism),  And, as we all know and has been proven throughout time, communism is great! Just look at their broken down societies.<br><br>Brave AMERICAN SOLDIERS throughout history have died for your right to be publicly stupid. And now that you are loudly exercising that right why not be publicly brave and bright - leave the country? Grow a pair. Use'em.  Leave. We'll survive without your tech ramblings that make most people's heads explode anyway. On the downside - the DUCT TAPE FOR THE HEAD market might crash.<br><br>WISDUMB<br><br>And the views you espouse?  They're revolutionary? Full of WISDUM\"? What the???<br><br>FAILS THE TURING TEST<br><br>Most \"Americans\" want the energy crisis solved, want health care for all, believe in separation of church and state. Believe in science, technology, equality and justice. You're cloaking yourself in what most Americans believe -- but then proclaim you're NOT AN AMERICAN? That even fails the Turing Turd test.<br><br>CEREBRUM VACCUOSO<br><br>You're \"NOT AN AMERICAN.\" Well, I'll  agree you're not thinking like one. Americans usually have some semblance of logic built on a foundation of facts and eventually try to come to right and reasonable conclusions. Your little rant is, at best, sophomoric on a 2nd grade level, PT Barnum-ese, absurdly illogical and full of pampered-punk pompousness.<br><br>YOUR BAROMETER<br><br>It is, however, a lot like a barometer. Big vacuum at the top.<br><br>This is a great country.  Because of that you've flourished. More power to you.  You can spout your 7 cans short of a 6-pack, smoke don't reach the top-of-your-chimney, parallel mind, serial world view.  It's your right.<br><br>As an American. But you say you're NOT AN AMERICAN. So ....<br><br>Be Brave.<br><br>Be Proud.<br><br>Take a Stand.<br><br>If you're not an American -- Move to another country and blog all about it.<br><br>Best<br><br>Steve Kayser<br><br><a href=\"mailto:skbigm@gmail.com\" rel=\"nofollow\">skbigm@gmail.com</a><br>Http://www.twitter.com/stevekayser", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_20:27:31", "killed": false, "user_key": "ebf23ccfce17f07d21f16d4322896405", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711220": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Wow...I never thought I'd see this day.  Robert Scoble has finally jumped the shark!  I wish you the best Robert, it's time to move on to others who are actually adding value to the conversation....", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_20:21:38", "killed": false, "user_key": "8d4d0daf7fc65179b88aa5ced8c10fe6", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711221": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I think it's awesome that people feel secure enough in our amazing country to speak their minds. Freedom os speech is a beautiful thing.<br><br>I do have one major issue though with your post, it's the part where you say <i>It\u2019s enough to make me want to move to Australia</i>. America is great because of it's diversity and because great people fought to make it as amazing as it is. If you love it, stay and help usher in change. If you don't then maybe you <b>should</b> go elsewhere.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_20:15:39", "killed": false, "user_key": "dad05a1073aca20c092ff4aa90c6b881", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711222": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Great rant Robert,<br><br>Lovely irony.  I'm also frustrated with how awful things have gotten.<br><br>However you are sorely off base on a number of your assertions and this is part of what fans the flames of division in this country.<br><br>For instance stem cell research is not unfunded by the federal government.  It is only off limits to research with any fetal material that was not from the lines identified in the policy.  Also fetal stem cell research is not illegal.  It simply can't be funded with federal money.  Any adult stem cell research is open to federal funding.  I'm sure there many stem cell researchers out there now employed with federal dollars.  Besides we all know the whole stem cell debate is really the abortion debate.<br><br>I agree we have to government to regulate some things.  Life would be total chaos without the FAA or FCC.  However politicians and bureaucrats are just as capable of being greedy, wrong and overreaching as business people.  The whole Fannie and Freddie thing was known for years.  Our elected officials and those running those quasi government companies made sure it was a raging inferno before doing something about it.  So what makes the government any more capable doing things right?<br><br>I've seen you do some great work touching on the political.  The interviews with the folks in Washington D.C. were great.  Keep up the good fight.  Keep shining a light on things.  It would be good for all of us if things changed so that you wouldn't even think of decrying you are not an american again.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_20:17:21", "killed": false, "user_key": "902beb20bdc49a355617bb5121c73f6b", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711223": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Scoble, what with the snide remarks you respond with to your readers, I can't see why more people don't just flock here.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_20:21:34", "killed": false, "user_key": "8f8ff21a67437febebc70afd19364e95", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711224": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I don't believe you're \"not an American\", but I do believe you don't understand wealth redistribution or socialism. Wealth redistribution isn't building roads or schools. I has nothing to do with helping people with healthcare. It's all about punishing achievement, fostering dependence on the government and placing as much power with the government as can be had. The \"rich\" already pay the lions share of taxes in this country. A full 30% pay zero federal income tax. The top 5% pay 60% of the taxes. The top 25% of taxpayers pay more than 85% of all taxes. Is that not enough?<br><br>One more thing about socialism. It IS unamerican. It flies in the face of limited government and private property rights.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_20:12:16", "killed": false, "user_key": "09a2c7328eab7de859828452b4b870d8", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711225": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "\"I agree with everything you said but I AM an American. That\u2019s what America is (should be) all about \u2014 tolerance, multiculturalism, inclusion.\"<br><br>That's nice until...<br><br>\"tolerance\" means \"mandatory acceptance and promotion.\"<br><br>\"multiculturalism\" means \"mandatory celebration of all cultures...except your own.\"<br><br>\"inclusion\" means \"mandatory inclusion of people in religious and civic organizations...who are  openly hostile to the professed beliefs of those organizations.\"<br><br>Don't believe this is already happening? Try doing a NexisLexis search sometime or, better yet, talk to Joe the Plumber who's had his life turned upside down simply because he had the temerity to ask Our Tolerant, Multicultural and Inclusive Personal Savior a simple, pointed question about his proposed tax plan.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_19:55:40", "killed": false, "user_key": "38da1dfc8870f5945288b1aa9bff42bd", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711226": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Wow, you yanks are sure confused about yourselves.<br><br>Interesting that you accept that the American brand is identified with the problems you highlighted. I would have expected that from Europeans - they're still smarting from WWII.<br><br>Almost the exact same thing could be said about I Am Not An Australian, or not. If you allow rednecks to define what an American is, then they will. Same over here.<br><br>I challenge you to do the opposite of that - find what Americans truly stand for that makes them appreciated in the world, much of which is NOT what you are saying you stand for, but probably resonates with you anyway. That would be a far more interesting post, and less partisan in its politics.<br><br>Angus", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_19:59:36", "killed": false, "user_key": "7e7d5611762251b7b1939a7c7b01d648", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711227": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Sounds to me like you are a Canadian.... Your more than welcome here...", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_19:42:29", "killed": false, "user_key": "e6404236ea41a221bb8448e5f3ed8a7b", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711228": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "You ARE an American because you can believe all of those things, live peacefully in this country and not in a jail cell. Why do you have to use your nationality as a 'stick' to beat others with your beliefs on your blog? If has nothing to do with being an American. Personally, I think you're wrong about most if it but I would never say you are not an American. You only feed the flame of discrimination with those statements.<br><br>By the way, why do you believe nuclear is 'better' than coal? Define better. With coal, emissions can be controlled...what do you propose we do with nuclear waste?", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_19:45:21", "killed": false, "user_key": "793ec996e4a45eded030c6febdf40b36", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711229": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Blah blah blah.  I'm with Christi -- I'm unsubscribing.  I'm doing this for the same reason I refuse to listen to Rush Limbaugh.  Just like Rush, your use of the platform (blogs in your case) as your righteous platform is a real turn-off.  I subscribed to you years ago b/c of the tech \"talk\".  Someday I hope you'll realize that having me read your blog is a privilege and should not be taken for granted.<br><br>I am American and I am voting with my unsubscribe!  I'm sorry, I just can't make myself believe you're as great as you think you are...  Good bye!", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_19:52:08", "killed": false, "user_key": "b7e2a5ee390358cb95a4b158d6d1600f", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711230": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Oh boo freaking hoo...  What a martyr.<br><br>Grow up and stick to tech.  You sound like an idiot.<br><br>And what's with all the plumber references?  One guy asks a simple question of your candidate and you guys all go ape shit.  This is liberal tolerance?  This is accepting all viewpoints?  It was a simple question!<br><br>You think Bush was a fascist, just wait until dissenting opinion is REALLY being silenced.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_19:39:13", "killed": false, "user_key": "840fc6edec4f376cc299258384dc7a77", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711231": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Robert, speaking only for myself, I hope that being here this week and all the intense conversations we had (we=lots of people) and the heavy political (but not pro-this-candidate-or-that) discussions in part spurred you to write this. Even if this post was coming all along, I want to think that being here with all these folks who bleed red, white and blue first egged it on. Virtual high five for writing this; for precinct walking and for getting to know Greensboro, North Carolina, and letting us get to know you better at the same time. (BTW, this is one of those \"roots\" things.)", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_19:14:56", "killed": false, "user_key": "1ee49803c934d4034f5022fee8097806", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711232": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "It's so sad when one feels compelled to denounce their country for the sake of personal truth, honor, and values, whatever or whoever they may be. But when you think about it, that's exactly how 'we' Americans came to be in the first place.  BLOGing is good; express yourself; raise issues; don't hide and bitch - do something. Get Out and Vote. Let's take our country back so it's cool being here again.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_19:19:20", "killed": false, "user_key": "fd6ca4e8cf51cadb5c8568969fc3c4bb", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711233": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I enjoyed your post Robert. I thought you were pretty brave writing it, though because as I suspected it's  brought all sorts of rather nasty remarks out of the blog woodwork. Now people \"know\" certain things about you you're going to lose readers and \"followers.\"  But that's probably for the best. Keep up the posting, tech stuff, opinions, and all.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_19:24:14", "killed": false, "user_key": "372e20a4071420100fc6d14a28bad7fa", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711234": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Robert,<br><br>I agree with everything you said but I AM an American. That's what America is (should be) all about -- tolerance, multiculturalism, inclusion.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_19:26:55", "killed": false, "user_key": "99bb8b48e3c2f4775e34936c09933e1a", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711235": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Hey Robert<br>First off let me say thank you for all the times in the last 2+ years you personally helped me understand the tech world via your posts. You may not have known you were helping me, but you did .<br>Second - what you just did in this post was the most American thing, the MOST patriotic thing you can do for our country. You show us that diversity and disagreements in politics only breed more strength for our country. As the mother of a son who serves in the US NAVY I am proud to know that there are still people who are willing to stand up for our right to Free Speech . You are helping to keep the ability to vote, to be Americans alive.<br><br>God Bless<br>:-)<br>ps- not an Obama supporter but not a McCain Supporter either, just an American who loves her country.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_19:34:05", "killed": false, "user_key": "efa5b767ad276870368af0abf0f2e6b4", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711236": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I like how you only leave the nice comments even though you've probably got tons of criticism.  you shoud be proud to be american.  i dont even think you know what it means to be american.  it doesn't mean being a libertarian or a socialist.  Fukin A", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_18:27:22", "killed": false, "user_key": "820d0e4ee14e986a44d33782ca852f51", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711237": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "yag: I understand your view and it even has a lot of merit.<br><br>Regarding attacks on Obama supporters. It's worse than that. Two days ago a reporter was attacked at a Palin rally and at the Republican convention there were some ultra liberals who attacked the Republicans.<br><br>I don't believe that violence is OK, on either side.<br><br>Agree that <a href=\"http://PorkBusters.org\" rel=\"nofollow\">PorkBusters.org</a> is a good site. 538 also seems to be pretty apolitical.<br><br>Got any other sites that can help us heal?", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_18:28:14", "killed": false, "user_key": "3553f5e0db0fd1ec4e40a932a2d8f5b3", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711238": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Bob: I'm leaving all comments here. I haven't deleted any.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_18:33:12", "killed": false, "user_key": "3553f5e0db0fd1ec4e40a932a2d8f5b3", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711239": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Not being an American and a liberal minded individual it pains me to think of how much the world has been changed by its current neoconservative American government.<br><br>Having said that, if you have not seed it already, you should checkout Johnathan Haidt's TED talk on the moral mind. Defiantly food for thought.<br><br><a href=\"http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/jonathan_haidt_on_the_moral_mind.html\" rel=\"nofollow\">http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/jonathan_hai...</a>", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_18:34:31", "killed": false, "user_key": "e84865c258848d792e58ffc34af0a65e", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711240": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Oh, oh, now I know why Bob showed up. I'm on <a href=\"http://michellemalkin.com/\" rel=\"nofollow\">http://michellemalkin.com/</a> home page.<br><br>By the way, some new comments may be held in moderation until I get home later tonight (I'm getting on a plane to fly home right now).", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_18:35:59", "killed": false, "user_key": "3553f5e0db0fd1ec4e40a932a2d8f5b3", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711241": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Scobble,<br><br>You just know how to denonce your homeland.<br>Please stop speaking ,and go to Saudia or Iran . Why don't you go there ? That's the Muslim's paradises isn't it?<br>I heard that these great country made a lot for humanity, they also have probably a silicon valley there.<br><br>good bye and don't forget to continue blogging ...ee be careful they will can put you in jail for this or cut your fingers if you will write things that against the \"public's moral\"<br><br>from a Democratic Country, your lector<br><br>A", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_18:36:38", "killed": false, "user_key": "9e63c4aee8da86f0c91b10a9516566d9", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711242": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "So some silly Republicans make stupid comments and you take a stand against all things Constitutional?<br><br>I am losing respect for you, Robert.  Seriously.  You shoot from the hip, but you do not seem to have a handle over the issues very much at all.<br><br>In a few weeks you will have what you want: a liberal Congress with a liberal White House.  You will be on the clock for two years.  I suspect the great gains Democrats make this election will all be given back in the mid-term elections.  There will be no blaming someone else for the failed policies.<br><br>My goodness.  Republicans have been in power the last two years?  Where the hell do you get that?<br><br>A different Bob", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_18:48:23", "killed": false, "user_key": "cee17d590423b408a3410167ba6ae5b4", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711243": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "BRAVO!!!!!!!!<br><br>So very well said.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_18:53:48", "killed": false, "user_key": "83164e7c627059ddb5fb53e446f619cc", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711244": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I don't always agree with you Scoble, and after friending (following?) you on FF a few months back it's fair to say I had become a little jaded with your increasingly frequent political and socio-economic missives, but I applaud you for standing up and saying how you truly feel about whats going on in your country regardless of how you think others will react, and for your efforts to show both sides of the same coin. Fair play, mate. The web would be a better place if everyone took the same approach. I'm just not sure I would have the time to follow them all on Friendfeed... ;)", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_18:55:49", "killed": false, "user_key": "1b061b9d90923aa94be36439e646527e", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711245": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "It doesn't take a rocket scientist to see the level of discourse drop after your right wing trolls get onboard.<br><br>From where I'm standing in Australia, America is no longer 'great'. Far from it.<br><br> Its a country primarily inhabited by the most ignorant people on this planet. You people let your leaders torture people, start unjustified preemptive wars all while letting fundamentalist christian doctrine divide your country to the point where even from over here you can feel the hate between the left and right growing.<br>How much longer can you guys live off your reputation before everyone calls your loans in and you can't buy a new food let alone a new Hummer?<br><br>America sold out its children and its childrens children in the last 10 years. You got fat while the world starved.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_19:04:07", "killed": false, "user_key": "bd0285929b98707cf4d7a813be0f45bb", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711246": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "The vitriolic comments of red-necks who can't see the flaws in their own country are what the rest of the world sees. No wonder the rest of the world wants Obama.<br><br>Robert - I think it took a lot to say what you said. Well Done.<br><br>hi from Oz by the way ;)", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_19:04:41", "killed": false, "user_key": "6dc8e7f5418988ab57886dcd2dae9b71", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711247": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Very interesting that you are pro-Nuke, a traditionally conservative standpoint. I for one agree with you - I just wish Obama did. There is currently no mention of nuclear power in the issues section of his website and only a passing mention during the most recent debate. I think it's the single most important issue in America today. With an abundance of electrical power, our dependance on fossil fuels would be cut in half in just a few years. Cheap nuclear power solves so many problems or makes them easier to solve - global warming, terrorism, pollution, economic growth, poverty, etc.<br><br>Everyone needs to read Power to Change the World. It will open your eyes on the risks/rewards of nuclear power.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_19:08:25", "killed": false, "user_key": "a49547cfcf076eea1bd5c14e9344a301", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711248": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Great post. We owe so much to those Americans who came before us who fought for all the freedoms we have. Thanks to them we're still free today.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_19:11:13", "killed": false, "user_key": "958a273a248bb3c909af65523936fd37", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711249": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Really like this piece Robert.<br><br>Here's an interesting article that every American should read. Or rather, the entire Western civilization.<br><br>\"In the New World Disorder, Loads of Rivals for America\"<br><br><a href=\"http://tinyurl.com/6o4784\" rel=\"nofollow\">http://tinyurl.com/6o4784</a> (<a href=\"http://Time.com\" rel=\"nofollow\">Time.com</a>)<br><br>Time for us to all start working a bit smarter, methinks.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_19:11:14", "killed": false, "user_key": "e405c10a6756bee6ba21b00b1b8a723a", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711250": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "i'll be honest this post was pretty lame, it made me feel as though i was reading the livejournal of a highschool 'anarchist.'", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_19:12:51", "killed": false, "user_key": "5220e95e76e93cc79d4c242d3e67ce42", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711251": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Am I crazy or did the post used to say \"so we could be married in an Iranian ceremony\"?<br><br>Currently it reads \"Islamic ceremony\" and IF it said that all along, then my first comment makes no sense, and please ignore it, thanks.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_19:14:41", "killed": false, "user_key": "0f5ab3b0c3f51bbb828b9e1a40af2afa", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711252": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "If Scoble gets taken out by the feds I call his blog", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_18:26:59", "killed": false, "user_key": "1307c085040bf4109f83d4dd50927c6c", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711253": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "IF YOU ARE NOT AN AMERICAN THEN GET THE FUCK OUT OR SHUT THE FUCK UP THIS IS THE MOST RETARDED SHIT I HAVE EVER READ", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_18:25:25", "killed": false, "user_key": "820d0e4ee14e986a44d33782ca852f51", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711254": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "ya fucking socialist of course you are american.  no American believe we shouldn't have public servants like police officers and roads and infrastructure.  you are a fucking idiot... seriously move to europe if you want to be a socialist please", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_18:24:14", "killed": false, "user_key": "a1068609037bedc3f677e92bcfd24d71", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711255": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "A bunch of emotionalism and Obama talking points, amounting to nothing. Unsubscribed.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_18:24:49", "killed": false, "user_key": "7d5faecbdf9bb7987013008c6bf6b307", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711256": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "BTW - I'm not gonna unsubscribe - still interested in your opinions on things - no matter what. That's what makes me an American.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_18:22:21", "killed": false, "user_key": "b7d059aa44b9f93bcff608b817d5f9fa", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711257": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Sorry Robert - you're part of the problem. Anyone who emphasizes the jerks on the right with the unamerican theme, and those who emphasize the \"buck fush\" jerks on the left are both part of the problem. Both are focusing on the things that tear us apart. As are you these last few weeks.<br><br>In the meantime, I haven't seen you talk about the actual physical assault by the Obama supporter on the 3 person pro-McCain folks standing on a corner in NYC.<br><br>I'm an American - Republican or Democrat or Independent or Libertarian. And so are you.<br><br>There's hope though - some groups (like <a href=\"http://PorkBusters.org\" rel=\"nofollow\">PorkBusters.org</a>) actually bring people together to say that there's a problem and there should be more openness via the web into everything both parties do. Talk about that much? Didn't think so.<br><br>It's a shame to see a friend descend into this crap. There are good people on both sides - and idiots on both. Sorry buddy - you should take some time and look at what brings us together instead.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-19_18:20:39", "killed": false, "user_key": "b7d059aa44b9f93bcff608b817d5f9fa", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711258": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Wow, Robert.  You sure know how to start a conversation!  :)", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_22:13:23", "killed": false, "user_key": "d0f0fb6ac9472944ef2cd4a3009d5c98", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711259": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Good grief... I mean I live in a nation of dumbed down zombies... the things that we need to do are laid out clearly before us. So you think Obama is the solution to our problems eh? Or maybe you think McCain is. I can't find anyone who has done a measly week's worth of of studying either man's background. No one knows crap about history. Allow me to take you back. Woodrow Wilson said on his departing address, that this country had, through him, become controlled by a banking elite. Eisenhower warned of the of the military industrial complex... you know, the guys who keep pushing us into wars so they can sell weapons systems.  People have been at their stupidest when it comes to John Kennedy. Here's a guy who vowed to do away with the CIA... Remember the CIA? The people who control 95% of worldwide drug trafficking? He also wanted to abolish the Federal Reserve. He also was opposed to becoming involved in Vietnam.. hint hint... military-industrial complex ring a bell here??? I'm sorry but all I've done is casual research and I know about these things. This is nothing brilliant, nothing profound here... just basic research. My verdict is that Americans are too stupid to live in a free society and now that it's being taken away from them they're too dumb to realize what they're losing. Sco' , all you do is address the superficial... blah blah blah blah blah... glad you're so impressed with yourself... I'm not.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-25_00:55:49", "killed": false, "user_key": "49c1377216e6dff0b498f3a088b43060", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711260": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "If you get an electric car, where will the electricity come from?  Or what will fuel the equipment that makes the car?  What kind of industrial, petrochemicals will be necessary in order to produce the batteries?  How much will those batteries weigh in proportion to their power output, ie, how efficient will they be?", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-11-19_22:00:22", "killed": false, "user_key": "64c9b71310898a05c04917efc1508fc9", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711261": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Oi! where has everybody gone?<br>Thats funny, as soon as I have a rant everyone disappears.<br>Anyway what are the car companies up to.<br>They want oodles of taxpayers money to build more<br>petrol cars. Well Gm built and leased electric cars and after<br>a few years recalled and trashed them.<br>I'm resolved not to buy another car unless it's electric.<br>I'll keep repairing my bomb in protest.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-11-19_07:00:11", "killed": false, "user_key": "f18261069ad8030b2f468942b819f44f", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711262": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I am like voting for Obama because he's like nice and he's like giving hope to the world and I like like that.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-24_16:05:29", "killed": false, "user_key": "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711263": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Right on. Good post. Great discussion. What would we do without the internets.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-24_15:17:40", "killed": false, "user_key": "b320dd1537aecca5b834c180bd00dd57", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711264": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "If this post reflects the thinking of every liberal then I fear for the future of our country.  The libs spend more time lynching Joe the Plumber than they ever did vetting Barry. It's very simple.  This issue is not Joe's background.The issue is that Barry showed his true colors as a Marxist with his response. But, yes, pay no  attention behind that curtain.<br><br>I have a challenge for you, Scoble. But I doubt will agree to it, or could pull it off if you tried. I don't think any lib could.  But, here goes:<br><br>Please take every promise and/or proposal that Barry and McCain have made during this campaign and match it with an Article or Amendment in the Constitution that gives them, or Congress the power to implement it.  NO WHERE in the Constitution does it grant the power to Congress to rob from the rich and give to the poor.   Now, lest  you go down some rathole you will be unable to climb out of, the General Welfare does not cover any of the proposals Barry has made. So, don't bother.  Ready?  GO!!!<br><br>Yea, I didn't think you could. Frustrating document that Constitution, huh?  The Founding Fathers knew that left unchecked, the Federal Govt. would gravitate to Socialism.  Thank God for their foresight and thus ensuring a Limited Government.  (I do hope that is not an unknown concept to you)<br><br>Barry would do well to study the words of Churchill<br><br>\"Socialism is a philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy, its inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery. ~ Winston Churchill", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-24_04:23:15", "killed": false, "user_key": "dd77f0d5dcfb054b7c3085c083e56aae", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711265": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Why is the sentence about Germany in the post?", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-24_04:39:06", "killed": false, "user_key": "91be528841d10ce6837ef5b94b1b03b6", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711266": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "wait til after the election. If McCain - Palin win it, then yes you are in trouble. But you can't do what you are doing from any other base in the world. No other kid could have grown up anywhere else in the world in the 70's like you did. America made you and heck it's OK. Still I can't talk. I left a religiously over zealous Ireland in the early 80's. Once I left the place picked up a little ;)<br><br>I notice how intolerant the far right can be. Maybe it's time to be an intolerant liberal and stop their nonsense.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_09:09:13", "killed": false, "user_key": "1f8e7b0610bf12287e239d32c2a9ae66", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711267": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Sorry, I get your point but this came off as really weird.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_09:12:36", "killed": false, "user_key": "508432b9468626d9a21f500591ff00e8", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711268": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "after all, if you criticize Obama, you would never be painted a racists, would you?", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_09:27:52", "killed": false, "user_key": "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711269": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Wow, look at all the conversation this awesome post generated!!<br><br>Nice job Robert... I concur!!  Looks like we're gonna have to CHANGE this country; don't move.  I love America and want it to GROW up and face the music.<br><br>No more greed, self-centered-ness, lack of vision, or discipline.  We must adopt a completely different strategy going forward to better manage this rich and diverse country.  Not an easy task by any means.  Obama brings the best hope for this needed change.<br><br>Kudos for such a well thought-out post...brilliant!<br><br>Susan Beebe<br><a href=\"http://friendfeed.com/susanbeebe\" rel=\"nofollow\">http://friendfeed.com/susanbeebe</a>", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_09:28:00", "killed": false, "user_key": "021f78e9313029a974804f9d4f56d386", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711270": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "This post is offensive.  Extremely.  I get your point, but it's wrong.  No sane person would make the claim that you're not American for any of the points you've given, even if they don't agree with them.  You're insinuating that Republicans make that claim, but that's a flat out lie.  If *YOU* believe that's true, then maybe you should consider making your trite little \"I'm not American\" saying true by leaving?<br><br>The rest of us sane folks, Democrats, Republicans, Libertarians, Green Party, Independents, Catholics, Jews, Atheists, and all the rest, would be a whole lot happier here without the attitude shown here.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_09:28:43", "killed": false, "user_key": "945693af19a797221e6b7fd418feb9ff", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711271": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "\"No more greed, self-centered-ness, lack of vision, or discipline. We must adopt a completely different strategy going forward to better manage this rich and diverse country. Not an easy task by any means. Obama brings the best hope for this needed change.\"<br><br>My goodness.. the naivete displayed here is mindboggling. Don't you realize the money machine behind Obama is laughing that this is too easy? Don't you know that inside the machine they say he is so self-satisified that all you have to do is stroke the ego and he'll do your bidding while thinking he is actually calling the shots? Don't you realize its the same on both sides?", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_09:35:01", "killed": false, "user_key": "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711272": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "This is so futile. Both parties are one in the same... I label you unamerican, you label me racist etc.. etc... all the way laughing to the bank...and then you have Winer and Scoble... being used by the apparatus for the same purpose.. and they don't even know it.  They are getting their egos stroked for the 'great posts' in the comments. They have been sucked into the machine and don't know it.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_09:40:23", "killed": false, "user_key": "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711273": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "LOL people who said they are unsubscribing to you Robert are still hanging around and posting comments here.<br><br>\"No wait - this time I am REALLY unsubscribing - REALLY I am - I mean it!\"<br><br>LOL I love this shit.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_09:48:40", "killed": false, "user_key": "dc4c6628701237c290b7817ccd724336", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711274": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Jeff Berlin, maybe he does know and guess what he is the one laughing all the way to the bank. You and I may post comments etc but it  is on his blog and the traffic he generates adds to his bottom line. So it is possibly calculated risk he took writing this post to generate even more traffic to his site.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_10:02:52", "killed": false, "user_key": "21554c55662fc8e13cc5de6f77805230", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711275": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "@ James from the UK:<br><br>Believe me, lines for free care are better than no care at all.<br><br>You have to wait for a CT scan.<br><br>Over here, without insurance, you just DIE.......  And then your family can't afford to bury you.  But of course, that's there own fault because they're poor -- they just don't work hard enough.<br><br>And hey, God loves Capitalists (or so the Right Wing would have us believe) despite universal healthcare, etc. being FAR more in line with actual Christian teachings....<br><br>They forget that there was one group even Jesus didn't like -- hypocrites and dogmatists.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_10:08:15", "killed": false, "user_key": "b1b2671e1ada23038e030d4fca747de3", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711276": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Scoble:<br><br>I don\u2019t know if you\u2019re an American or not. What I do know is that 1) you didn\u2019t have to insult my wife\u2019s intelligence after she decided to unsubscribe to your blog (she did not say anything about your politics, just that she was tired of hearing politics on a technology blog- BTW that makes you very Non-Web 2.0); and 2) you didn\u2019t have a video up as of this morning, even though you said in your response to my wife yesterday, \u201cI\u2019ll have a video of a tech startup up tonight\u201d.<br><br>So, knowing those two things about you, I also know that you are 1) an asshole and 2) a liar. Good bye.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_10:10:21", "killed": false, "user_key": "4e7795db93a344b5c2f6277591b4c674", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711277": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "From an X - change fearing, X - bible beating, midwest farm raised redneck, X - bush backing, X - republican, and anti-Walmart consumer......<br><br>Thank you!!  I don't know what I am now, but it's better than what I was, and this release feeeels goooood.....<br><br>Live and let live.  I agree with Larry Magid, I thought this country was about the differences and how they worked together to make us better.  I agreed with the Afghanistan invasion, but drew the line with Bush's personal and oil crusade in Iraq,.  Our country isn't what is once was.  Since WWII we have been on a steady decline and now we have hit rock bottom.  I hate to disagree with my family, but it is time for new young inspiration.<br><br>While I didn't vote for Clinton, I have to admit that our country was the best I can remember in my lifetime.<br><br>It's time to educate and change.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_10:19:13", "killed": false, "user_key": "c9a12215a3100145c4fa22e3a64c5afd", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711278": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I'm also voting with my \"unsubscribe\". I read this blog for tech industry news, not political diatribes. Having an opinion is most American, but I didn't think this was an opinion column.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_10:41:52", "killed": false, "user_key": "d96d5848c7579f054baceeae9a944df1", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711279": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Robert,<br>I have to say you know how to drive traffic - 144 comments. You hardly ever get that much attention on a \"tech\" only post.<br><br>You know, when I get into a discussion about American poltics with my friends I ask \"If you were GOD, what top three things in America would you change and why?\"<br><br>Care to give an answer?", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_10:49:50", "killed": false, "user_key": "ff0eb14189bbc1754983c610b5895ae4", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711280": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "BRAVO!<br><br>Now thats what i call nailing you colours to the mast :-)", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_10:55:37", "killed": false, "user_key": "15626198d552b84b0d0d787f8ec124a7", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711281": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "you sound very French to me :-)<br><br>So you sound Canadian to a Canadian, Brazilian to a Brazilian, Aussie to an Autralian and French to me... sounds like a good start.<br><br>Moving to problem solving ( that's american isn't it ?), why don't the non american part of the US join the EC :-)", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_10:57:51", "killed": false, "user_key": "23994e564476642c25d62992cbfffee3", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711282": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Really enjoyed both writer and readers views....and i don't agree that a tech blogger cant talk about politics....", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_11:04:04", "killed": false, "user_key": "b0829fa25b968cd762cea2948f7cd5eb", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711283": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Joe: I decided to get some sleep, I flew from North Carolina home yesterday and was dead tired when I got home. I'm uploading the video now.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_11:12:07", "killed": false, "user_key": "3553f5e0db0fd1ec4e40a932a2d8f5b3", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711284": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "&gt;No sane person would make the claim that you\u2019re not American for any of  the points you\u2019ve given, even if they don\u2019t agree with them.<br><br>I'd agree with that, but at many rallies and in many talk shows lately I've seen the points made that those who don't agree are \"unAmerican.\" Oh, and Sarah Palin made that point too. So, I figured I'd just have some fun with those who call the people on the other side who call names rather than discuss the issues. Of course Jon Stewart had a stronger set of words for Palin: <a href=\"http://www.weeklystandard.com/weblogs/TWSFP/2008/10/jon_stewart_to_sarah_palin_exp.asp\" rel=\"nofollow\">http://www.weeklystandard.com/weblogs/TWSFP/200...</a><br><br>Oh, and Joe, I guess you can't use Google anymore. After all Google's CEO just endorsed Obama. So unAmerican!", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_11:15:32", "killed": false, "user_key": "3553f5e0db0fd1ec4e40a932a2d8f5b3", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711285": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I am a Canadian, and know the healthcare in Canada for everyone is great, as long as you don't get sick.  Everyone with a serious illness that I know has gone down to the US to pay for healthcare to get treated (including my family members).  I think the grass is greener on the otherside complex is getting a little out of hand in the US.<br><br>I believe in equality of opportunity, not equality of outcome.  How do I tell a person paying 35% and $1M of their income they should pay more in tax when 40% of his countrymen don't pay tax?  Doesn't seem to encourage innovation does it?<br><br>And this stemcell thing in the US seems to baffle me.  The current adminstration has made it pretty clear that they do not oppose stem cell research, they just will not provide tax payer dollars to fund stem cell research from fetuses, which in itself is a highly theoritical, unproven field of research.  Wow, a government criticized for being smart with its people's money.  A little digging shows that 90-95% of medical research in the US (one of the KEY reasons why so much is discovered in the US, and not say, my home of Canada) is from private funding, yet people are up in arms on this issue...it is moronic.<br><br>And I am baffled by everyone who visits another country and pretends to know the intricacies of a society.  Unless you live somewhere for greater than 5 years, I really don't believe you have the knowledge to comment on the success or failure of a foreign society.<br><br>I subscribe to the blog to keep up to date on technology, but this blog is becoming increasingly irrelevant in that subject, and just as I wouldn't ask a plumber to inform me on technology, I wouldn't look to a tech blogger for his opinion on politics and economics.<br><br>I will check you out sometime in the future, when you have gotten off your soapbox.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_11:26:59", "killed": false, "user_key": "874e24e94078668bdea203405e1f9390", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711286": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "\"Oh, and Joe, I guess you can\u2019t use Google anymore. After all Google\u2019s CEO just endorsed Obama. So unAmerican!\"<br><br>this just blows my mind. What a childish statement. I thought you'd want to discuss this with open exchange of ideas. I guess I was wrong.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_11:50:19", "killed": false, "user_key": "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711287": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "@court<br><br>Don't bother with facts, they will be ignored. Robert will argue that its religion that controls the US stem cell policy. This is his theocracy argument.  This from an atheist that converted to a state sanctioned religion to get married. Amazing. But like I said it matters not and this all just a waste of bandwidth.. sigh...", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_11:59:09", "killed": false, "user_key": "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711288": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Robert, you said: I\u2019d agree with that, but at many rallies and in many talk shows lately I\u2019ve seen the points made that those who don\u2019t agree are \u201cunAmerican.\u201d<br><br>You often claim that people who don't agree with you are unintelligent.  So what's the difference?", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_12:28:18", "killed": false, "user_key": "807649270a68e4bc6d489d6fec81fdb1", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711289": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "\"My mom was born in Germany. We all know how much terror THEY brought on the world over the past 100 years. I\u2019m not an American.\"<br><br>Oh wow.. Haha.<br><br>On a serious note: It is very sad that you feel you should have to write an article such as this.. I'm not saying you're in the wrong, just that its dumbfounding that people could make such statements about a person. Someone needs to stand up and remind us all what we were taught (or at least what I was taught) as a little child in school about our country being a giant melting pot..<br><br>I don't like baseball. I am not an American. lol", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_12:34:48", "killed": false, "user_key": "2c31a14e936cf87c686a835ac37e34cd", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711290": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Heh.  Ah yes the wisdom of socialist democrats.  How lucky we are for you to spell it out for us evil republicans--uh scratch that, evil independents, (as I quit the Republican party when Gingrich's Contract with America was trashed).  You only have the current Republican leadership to thank for the new opportunity of American Socialism under Obama, which in my opinion will happen.<br><br>But lets slow down for a minute.  I understand your comments somewhat as I have lived in the south before, being from the Bay Area, and I concur that a subtle kind of darkness pervades what is visible to one who is not from there.  It pops up in strange belligerence of some the people you meet, and in their general dislike of Californians in general, paired with an odd cultural form of social segregation.<br><br>But I caution you Robert, as you are suffering from the same sense of social isolation that they are, but it is that of the San Francisco Bay Area Super Socialist Tech Culture.  Surely your comments are viewed by most Americans as whacko California ignorant clique chic.  Reminds me of the old sixties bumper sticker from the opposite world, 'America, Love it or Leave it'.  To which I say, I do not think that forcing everyone to think as you do (as your friends at Acorn and and the socialist left would have us become) is hardly American in any way at all.  If your belief structure becomes a reality, the net result has a possibility in a collapsing economic structure to be a massive system of loss of freedom and the right to believe what you want in order to achieve your social nirvana.  And such a system would could result in a Stalin like purge at some point in the political future so that your ideals of a Brave New Green iWorld can come to pass.<br><br>Before you stupidly piss all over that which brung you, consider this:  The computers you use were designed and possibly built in Taiwan, which China looked at for forty years in jealous rage before it too adopted western capitalism, and Taiwan would today not exist had we Americans not helped them to thrive.  The same is true with South Korea.  Do you really think the South Koreans could have done as well without our political help.  I think those who lived in Seoul when the North invaded, killed anyone they found and burned the city to the ground might disagree.  Japan is the result of a constitution forged by Americans, and most of Asia today is adopting American wisdom and ideas that have proven successful.<br><br>Europe was rebuilt as a result of American help and political and financial support of the Marshall Plan so that all those socialist countries could continue to exist.  And truthfully, Europe is not so much socialist as it is a group of strongly bound social democracies with firm ties to the Capialist economic systems of the world.  Choosing higher tax rates in exchange for more government services does not necessarily make them socialist.<br><br>And certainly millions of South Americans, Indians, Armenians, Iranians, Iraqis, Germans, East Europeans, Russians, Africans, Chinese, and on and on are still trying desperately to arrive here, live here, become citizens here, especially with the literally almost nonexistent enforcement of immigration laws.  We tried to help countries like Liberia, Ethiopia, Sudan and others years ago to pattern the same economic building structure there to allow them to pull themselves out of the throes of poverty, but most of that failed for violence, revolution, murder and starvation won the day.<br><br>And as for your confusion about our participation in the middle east and Afghanistan, understand that if we were not there, the killing and murder of innocents would still be going on, and no one would be there to report it or tell us of the darkness.  The only difference is that now they have some to shoot at who shoots back and if they do succeed in ousting the Americans, then look to see every a possible world where every Israeli will be killed the moment they think they can get away with it to protect their form of intolerance toward anything not Muslim.<br><br>I would pray that your narrow minded level of intolerance for anything not liberal-democrat would be reconsidered.<br><br>I am an American.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_12:39:16", "killed": false, "user_key": "b321b4ca693d46acd86756a6c0f74506", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711291": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Dawn: name one time I said that. URLs please. If do it so often you should be able to find at least three.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_12:39:26", "killed": false, "user_key": "3553f5e0db0fd1ec4e40a932a2d8f5b3", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711292": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Jeff: &gt;&gt;This from an atheist that converted to a state sanctioned religion to get married.<br><br>I'm not an atheist.<br><br>I have no idea whether God exists or not -- I haven't seen scientific proof either way. That makes me an agnostic.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_12:42:20", "killed": false, "user_key": "3553f5e0db0fd1ec4e40a932a2d8f5b3", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711293": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I'm amused at the three things in the comments: 1. those that 'get' the post, 2. those that totally do not 'get' the post, and 3. the declaration of un-subscription.<br><br>For those who also live on Planet Earth, I'd like to remind you that yes, there are in fact, -two- Americas, so please, hate only half of us.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_12:48:52", "killed": false, "user_key": "fc01b6575368251c1a310ed6ea5d6a03", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711294": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "To those who say that I only write about politics or think about politics, you are absolutely wrong.<br><br>You must read my FriendFeed comments, for instance. <a href=\"http://friendfeed.com/scobleizer/comments\" rel=\"nofollow\">http://friendfeed.com/scobleizer/comments</a><br><br>Or see the things I've \"Liked\" (er, shared) with you: <a href=\"http://friendfeed.com/scobleizer/likes\" rel=\"nofollow\">http://friendfeed.com/scobleizer/likes</a><br><br>Or see all the things I share or blog about: <a href=\"http://friendfeed.com/scobleizer\" rel=\"nofollow\">http://friendfeed.com/scobleizer</a><br><br>Only a very small percentage of my work has anything to do with politics.<br><br>Which makes me very happy at the unsubscribes. I'm hoping for a smart audience here, not one that throws insults based on bad data.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_12:52:40", "killed": false, "user_key": "3553f5e0db0fd1ec4e40a932a2d8f5b3", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711296": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Robert,<br><br>I might agree with you on some issues. And, I might not on a few.<br><br>But I want to point something else out: Ignorance can be defined by not knowing when you demonstrate you are no better than. Me, I believe in tolerance because it is our ability to coexist with differences in beliefs and opinions that make us great, not our differences. No one really wins, Robert.<br><br>Best,<br>Rich", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_12:54:26", "killed": false, "user_key": "ca43130d4f4f2e99df116c585a1a3cae", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711297": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Richard: it's hard to be tolerant when a Vice Presidential candidate hints that you are Un American. Which is why I wrote this post. Jon Stewart used even stronger language to respond: <a href=\"http://www.memeorandum.com/081020/p1#a081020p1\" rel=\"nofollow\">http://www.memeorandum.com/081020/p1#a081020p1</a>", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_12:58:54", "killed": false, "user_key": "3553f5e0db0fd1ec4e40a932a2d8f5b3", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711298": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "You're not an American. Guess what? You're not alone. Welcome to the world all you I-am-not-Americans (from a South Asian by ethnicity, born and raised Kenya, raised some more and educated in the UK, raised as a Jain, converted to an atheist, now living in Canada but at home in the World)", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_13:26:27", "killed": false, "user_key": "2cbc2155a389fc5fdeb2e8f673639ba3", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711299": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Once again, Robert, you've got a great idea in this post, but it's wrapped up in some pretty prickly words, and a lot of people (myself included) are having a hard time getting through those words.<br><br>I understand that you're trying to create a sharp contrast between your beliefs and those of people who claim to be American while doing some things that clearly set this country back many, many years.<br><br>But I am an American, and I'm a little sensitive when it comes to messing with that pledge.<br><br>I am an American, and I believe that we can still be the greatest country on Earth.<br><br>I am an American, and I'd much rather have a conversation about how to make things right than to bitch about those who are trying to tear us down.<br><br>I am an American, and I believe that Americans never give up, and we must never forget the principles that forged our nation.<br><br>I am an American, and I hope we can all find a way to define ourselves in terms of the things that Americans are doing right, rather than all the things that Americans are doing wrong.<br><br>I am an American, and that doesn't mean that I'm one of the mindless morons you're trying to distance yourself from.<br><br>I am an American, and I'm proud of it.<br><br>If you want to impress me, be a better American and help the Americans of today and the Americans of tomorrow become better citizens.  Take some ownership in the future by teaching your son that Americans aren't defined by the worst examples of our population, but by the best examples.<br><br>If you really believe that America can't be saved, then by all means, feel free to say so, because that's your right: bought and paid for by those that came before you.  Just be sure you understand that you're selling out your son's America, because you're creating the America that he'll live in.  I think you want a better America for him, but slinging mud back at the destructive forces in our country won't get us there.<br><br>Robert, I've seen you ignite firestorms plenty of times in the past in order to make a point or stir up discussion, and it's clear that's what you've done here, too.  Normally, I don't really take issue with this tactic, but this time, I think you've gone too far, because I am an American, and I believe that good Americans have to take that pledge seriously.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_13:34:10", "killed": false, "user_key": "05cee85a1f8f0d0134e7470212a742d7", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711300": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "\"Richard: it\u2019s hard to be tolerant when a Vice Presidential candidate hints that you are Un American. Which is why I wrote this post. Jon Stewart used even stronger language to respond: <a href=\"http://www.memeorandum.com/081020/p1#a081020p%22\" rel=\"nofollow\">http://www.memeorandum.com/081020/p1#a081020p\"</a><br><br>This the best you can do?  Jon Stewart? c'mon dude. Once again, think for yourself and don't let pop culture dictate your thought patterns.  I suppose you will point us to Howard Stern next?<br><br>\"Dawn: name one time I said that. URLs please. If do it so often you should be able to find at least three.\"<br><br>Dawn need only point this post - aren't you insuating that you are smarter than Joe the Plumber and Sarah Palin? I'd caution you here - both of them are 'doers'.. you merely interview 'doers'.. and isn't this the root of your hatred?", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_13:53:30", "killed": false, "user_key": "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711301": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Now to wrap this up.. why are you so insulted? According to everything I see on tv, the majority position in this country is the same as yours.  The country is overwhelming liberal correct? So why should some crazy remarks of some soon-to-be footnote in presidential politics bother you?", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_14:05:05", "killed": false, "user_key": "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711302": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Robert, in response your comment to Dawn that you never say people who disagree with you are unintelligent.<br><br>\"Which makes me very happy at the unsubscribes. I\u2019m hoping for a smart audience here, not one that throws insults based on bad data.\"<br><br>That is your comment subsequent to the comment in question.  Does this not infer that people who disagree with you are not smart, that people who unsubscribe are not smart?  What constitutes bad data...data that goes against your opinions?  What about all the people who are unsubscribing cause they find your blogs on technology insightful but your political and economical rants tiring, are they not smart?  As someone who deals in Finance for a living, it is stunning to see you criticize the knowledge of the common voter and then argue points so fundamentally flawed they make me wonder if you have ever taken a course in finance, economics or accounting in your life.<br><br>\"The best argument against democracy is a 5 minute conversation with the average voter\"  Winston Churchill", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_14:07:22", "killed": false, "user_key": "874e24e94078668bdea203405e1f9390", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711303": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Court: no it means that people who try to abuse other people for their opinions are not smart. There's a HUGE difference. I don't care if you disagree. Say so in a smart way and you might even change my opinion.<br><br>By the way I have a minor in economics.<br><br>Bad data is data that's bad. :-)", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_14:16:50", "killed": false, "user_key": "3553f5e0db0fd1ec4e40a932a2d8f5b3", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711304": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "@Court<br><br>Isn't funny how he says bad data.. then points to Jon Stewart as a credible reference? Look at the comment he gave me - he converted to Islam yet he's agnostic, so it was a sham and his credibility is plummeting by the second. The really bad part is that he doesn't realize he is being used for his audience.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_14:17:22", "killed": false, "user_key": "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711305": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "&gt;As someone who deals in Finance for a living, it is stunning to see you criticize the knowledge of the common voter and then argue points so fundamentally flawed<br><br>I think you missed the whole point of yesterday's post. It was criticizing Sarah Palin for calling wide swaths of Americans \"UnAmerican.\"<br><br>But now you have me interested. What points are fundamentally flawed?", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_14:18:08", "killed": false, "user_key": "3553f5e0db0fd1ec4e40a932a2d8f5b3", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711306": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Jeff: I used to be an evangelical Christian too.<br><br>So you can't convert from religion to religion so that we can do a stupid ceremony to make wife's family happy? Got it.<br><br>Me? I love it when religious people get mad with me over this stuff. In the meantime we COULD be arguing about the economy, or how we'll solve the energy problems or global warming or any of that. Yet you care about my religious weirdnesses. Sigh.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_14:21:37", "killed": false, "user_key": "3553f5e0db0fd1ec4e40a932a2d8f5b3", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711307": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Oh, and I never said Jon Stewart is a credible reference. Where do you get this stuff in your mind? We're talking about Sarah Palin's \"Un American\" comments. Just in case I wasn't clear enough.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_14:22:38", "killed": false, "user_key": "3553f5e0db0fd1ec4e40a932a2d8f5b3", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711308": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Do u feel I am abusing you Robert? I just want to know how strong you believe these things and how far you are willing to go.  Where do you see religion winning out over science and technology? Where do you see stem cell research creating more value then a person that installs plumbing in a home? If you really feel that your money is better spent some other way, cut a check for at least half your net worth and give it away.. but you have to give to someone who will give it away in some way you don't support - perhaps a stem cell research protest or maybe it goes to an anti abortion group.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_14:25:03", "killed": false, "user_key": "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711309": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "You were clear. I still don't see why I should give any credence to what he says.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_14:26:24", "killed": false, "user_key": "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711310": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Why haven't you criticised Obama's clinging to guns and religion remark? Isn't that insulting wide swaths of Americans?", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_14:27:42", "killed": false, "user_key": "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711311": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Robert,<br><br>Curious - how can you have been an evangelical christian and now Muslim but claim to not believe that God exists - i.e. you stated you are not sure thus you are not sure either way. Fair enough - but how can you claim to belong or have belonged to religions for which such a belief is a requirement?", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_14:43:11", "killed": false, "user_key": "42a306783dc7ccb156ed854ccbfc5aca", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711312": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Isn't because its you agree with that comment?", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_14:45:13", "killed": false, "user_key": "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711313": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I also might add that while your point might be take, to somehow judge the worth of a \"Joe the Plumber\" as compared to the multiple references comes across as not only elitist but really quite an insult to many people who have such jobs. How about you take out all of your plumbing - i.e. running water, indoor toilets and then claim there is no value. R&amp;D is excellent - it is what I do - but you need the \"Joes\" to implement the research. Those statements among others are ignorant. Everything has been R&amp;D  at one point or another, for which you then insult the people who carry out the R&amp;D endpoints that you cite as being the important part about R&amp;D. Completely defective and twisted logic.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_14:47:13", "killed": false, "user_key": "42a306783dc7ccb156ed854ccbfc5aca", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711314": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "benb: it might be elitist, but here's the deal. An R&amp;D worker can come up with something totally new that creates thousands of jobs.<br><br>THAT is why America needs to save its R&amp;D jobs and worry a little less about plumbers in its public discourse.<br><br>Jeff: I used to believe in God then a variety of things happened to change my belief. I could go into that if you want, but I have to go do some interviews today so will have to take that up some other time.<br><br>&gt;Where do you see religion winning out over science and technology?<br><br>Easy, Congressmen say that the Bush administration has blocked policy after policy on religious grounds. Plus they've fired scientists, and more. But I don't have time right now to pull up all the URLs and get into a whole dissertation, gotta go do some real work and make sure an entrepreneur can get his/her company in front of you to have a chance to make it. I think that's a little more important than arguing this stuff, at least right now.<br><br>Gotta run.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_14:54:05", "killed": false, "user_key": "3553f5e0db0fd1ec4e40a932a2d8f5b3", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711315": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "@benb<br><br>Succinctly and intelligently put. Here's the problem. The Winer talking points have no answer to logic. What Robert will say is he wasn't insulting Joe the Plumber (clearly he was... much the same the lipstick on a pig remark was).", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_14:54:17", "killed": false, "user_key": "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711316": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "\"Easy, Congressmen say that the Bush administration has blocked policy after policy on religious grounds. Plus they\u2019ve fired scientists, and more. But I don\u2019t have time right now to pull up all the URLs and get into a whole dissertation, gotta go do some real work and make sure an entrepreneur can get his/her company in front of you to have a chance to make it. I think that\u2019s a little more important than arguing this stuff, at least right now.\"<br><br><br><br>Nice change of direction. I'll never defend GWB, but please don't give me partisan politics. Give me a record of where a politician blocked/votes something down due to religous beliefs.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_15:01:03", "killed": false, "user_key": "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711317": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "@Christianity: The five year wait for a CT scan was only part of the problem (obviously, in reality I simply paid to receive the procedure promptly) - if you live long enough to reach the treatment stage, you can be denied treatment on cost grounds, with the added threat that they will withdraw ALL treatment if you choose to pay for the aspects they exclude. Yes, it's \"free\" - if you live long enough - but only if the treatment is cheap enough to be approved. A lot of recent cancer treatments are deemed too expensive, for example, and denied to those relying on this \"universal\" care.<br><br>You may have a point that it's better than nothing - but when it only provides a subset of care to a lucky subset of people, is it really any more \"universal\" than Medicaid and similar programs? Ultimately, you're still at the mercy of how generous the government is feeling at the time, and can still end up broke or dead because you can't get the treatment you need without paying a fortune for it.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_15:01:59", "killed": false, "user_key": "16d48334bc778cdb73271c72c953a86f", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711318": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "\"benb: it might be elitist, but here\u2019s the deal. An R&amp;D worker can come up with something totally new that creates thousands of jobs. \"<br><br>Wow now there is turn of events... Let me see the Democrat party likes to use the line that they are for the working/middle class... then he dismisses a Joe but supports R&amp;D... and who is R&amp;D funded by? Major corporations. he his thumbing his nose at the value created by Joe (working class) and saying that an R&amp;D worker is a better (highly educated, most likely pulling down six figures and working for or being funded by large corporations). And in the same breath they will rip the republican party.  What a trip.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_15:09:46", "killed": false, "user_key": "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711319": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "What is an american?<br><br>Chavez in an American<br>Lula is an American<br>Kirchner is an American etc...<br><br>The majority of the Americans don't speak English but Spanish.<br>May be we are not speaking about the same thing.<br><br>nice post any way.<br><br>I'm european living in America (Argentina exactly)", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_15:36:35", "killed": false, "user_key": "7af38e83c9ae2f0d3a4a1b052dde817a", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711320": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "@Jeff<br><br>Exactly. There are so many levels of absurdity.<br><br>For example, the R&amp;D that he says creates thousands of jobs are the jobs that the \"Joes\" end up doing. So if the Joes/ working middle class jobs are worthless, what does that say about the high and mighty R&amp;D?", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_15:59:36", "killed": false, "user_key": "42a306783dc7ccb156ed854ccbfc5aca", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711321": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Robert, I had a thought about your comment regarding worrying less about the Joe the plumbers. Among other things, indeed, lets worry less about the working class. Lets worry less about construction workers as well and whether or not they have or get paid well for jobs. We do not need working plumbing, working roads etc. Who cares if their family is able to get by and whether their kids can go to school and perhaps reach the highest level of R&amp;D. Certainly forget the arts and people who do things in that realm, after all what do they really provide? Certainly not thousands of jobs.<br><br>Do you not see that it is all an ecosystem, one begets another. R&amp;D begets the Joes, which begets families and kids to be educated and so on. A hard working person not inventing, but creating via the inventions of others, without them there is no value in the R&amp;D. If there is no value in R&amp;D, there is no incentive to R&amp;D and so on.<br><br>For someone that has called on \"fellow democrats\" your comments are so far out of whack as to make no sense. Perhaps it should have been aimed towards \"fellow elitist democrats\". The group of elitists can all get together and decide how we should all live, how the money should be split up and it all becomes a moot point. I work as an R&amp;D person and find your whole stance on the subject to be troubling, but really more of an indictment about you and how you value people. I wonder how you view yourself in the equation of value in the world?", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_16:09:16", "killed": false, "user_key": "42a306783dc7ccb156ed854ccbfc5aca", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711322": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Your best blog item to this date.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_16:09:18", "killed": false, "user_key": "645ef06a25b0fa1973d1aa255cd91b77", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711323": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I guess I'm not an American either, eh?", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_16:09:21", "killed": false, "user_key": "0d369f1d42c1c677e16777b75f58a2a5", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711324": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Right on! I'm also tired of being considered un-American because I believe in many of the things you do. And, as a Catholic, I'm tired of having my morality questioned.<br><br>And look at the vitriol of so many commenters here, proving exactly the point you make by facetiously stating that you are not an American.<br><br>I think I'll subscribe to your blog, because I like my technology with a dose of humanity.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_16:11:29", "killed": false, "user_key": "8ce789aff4eb6390ff8ef02ea72d82c5", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711325": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "You are right on point Robert.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_16:18:40", "killed": false, "user_key": "3d88f8e3aa89a242d9852624f08e7152", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711326": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I am not an American either, apparently.<br><br>Great post.<br><br>Thanks for havin' the guts to say it.<br><br>Obama/Biden '08", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_16:21:51", "killed": false, "user_key": "f2e6fb5943572f325eb2f91784be75b3", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711327": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "@benb<br><br>I have learned that trying to draw Robert and Dave Winer into dialog never results in anything positive. They will eventually call you names, leave nasty little one liners that they think are witty and abandon the comments altogether while never providing one thoughtful response to questions such as yours. Why I am still commenting.. .cause I am an ass I guess. But Scoble and  his ilk facinate me. Their minds have been so polluted by an idealogy that they themselves have not thought up, that they can't see the end game is their own destruction.  Ten years from now when the fairness doctrine is instituted they will find themselves victims of their own nearsightedness. And the planters of the seeds will reap what they have sown with these 'sims'. And Scoble and his ilk will be standing there like richard gere at the end of Primal Fear finally realizing they've been had.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_16:34:10", "killed": false, "user_key": "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711328": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "!!!EXCELLENT . EXCELLENT POST!!!!", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_16:39:41", "killed": false, "user_key": "9226fabdacf6a45e24adb426649a8c33", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711329": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Great! I'll help you pack Robert - we don't need you!", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_16:48:15", "killed": false, "user_key": "4a28366caeba8e8a6840ec0c689de0b8", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711330": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I am tired of a \"Tech\" writer who rants about liberal politics. What ever credibility he did have is completely lost.<br><br>Signed,<br>An American.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_16:51:42", "killed": false, "user_key": "3e737ec9a31d0f76a8b9e8bf5f4ffb97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711331": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I AM NOT A SUBSCRIBER!  I removed myself just after reading Scommie's anti-American rant.<br><br>I say go ahead move to Australia, maybe they have and open borders policy, like you wish that American had, and you can get it right away.  Keep in mind that when you get there, even though you aren't yet a citizen, you should immediately start demanding health care coverage, voting rights, and demand that they publish everything in American English (some of those Aussie terms can get confusing).<br><br>I had no idea you were such a snobbish, Liberal, elitist.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_17:07:50", "killed": false, "user_key": "6f9ae5fc90bf002dd0562a0a8ff998ee", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711332": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Vice presidential candidate Joe Biden told large swaths of Americans they are unpatriotic because they aren't willing to pay more taxes.  Robert, I do not recall you making a post like this about that.<br><br>Because you are an American, you can post about whatever you feel like.<br><br>I come here for technology information.  I love politics, but I have different venues for them.  I'll be looking at different venues for technology news too.<br><br>No name-calling here.  I am not even a Republican.  I am just extremely disappointed in what you posted.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_17:28:01", "killed": false, "user_key": "cee17d590423b408a3410167ba6ae5b4", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711333": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Some of you will appreciate the talk called \"HOW MODERN LIBERALS THINK\" by a guy named Evan Sayet.  It's a work of genius.  You'll need some quiet time, but it is very good.<br><a href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eaE98w1KZ-c\" rel=\"nofollow\">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eaE98w1KZ-c</a>", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-20_18:27:23", "killed": false, "user_key": "2172953e7331b97659b8872634be69a8", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711334": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Come to Australia !<br><br>We love Americans who understand what being American is<br><br>Some things we admire, some we cannot understand<br><br>I AM NOT AMERICAN!", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-21_07:05:21", "killed": false, "user_key": "f137402d2101c82c1488d3470be2dbcf", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711335": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I will defend GWB!! He has defended us!   We were attached on 9/11/2001.   Can anyone tell me when we have been attacked again on our own soil?!  When innocent Americans have been killed by terrorists in our own cities?<br><br>You may put him down for the economy, but when it came to his first and highest<br>priority,  he has performed with excellence!!  I only hope that our next president realizes that our safety takes priority.  A strong economy is worthless if we are not safe!!", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-21_08:29:50", "killed": false, "user_key": "4bf45c11d0cf7547d39acf1668fb6d3e", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711336": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I can understand your frustration at the state of politics today, but your post  shows a complete disrespect for anyone who disagrees with you, which is just as arrogant as the people you're protesting in your post.  I don't mind hearing different positions than mine, but I don't have time for people who assume anyone who disagrees with them is an idiot.<br><br>I just deleted my link to your site, and I won't be getting tech updates from you any more.  TechCrunch is just as informative, and I don't get condescending commentary over there.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-21_12:51:39", "killed": false, "user_key": "17d51fa2ab254888be548f2d9f926676", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711337": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I'm outta here (i.e. your site) too.  I like technology, hate politics, and all your post said was that you are nothing but a loser.  Seriously.  PLEASE move somewhere else far away, not because you don't have a right to be here, but because, well, this country needs less losers.  Oh, and try not to move to Australia, it's just make the country less cool.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-21_14:26:59", "killed": false, "user_key": "bfa96e31dfdce240a15dfb906fb0cacf", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711338": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "That's why I moved to Krasnodar, Russia. Russia is now the land of opportunity.<br><br>Will the \"real\" America please stand-up on November 4th and be heard?", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-21_16:02:55", "killed": false, "user_key": "6c735fade6f1cd9ad910a4d8db645fa1", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711339": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "\"Mark my words,\" Biden told donors at a Seattle fund-raiser Sunday night.<br><br>\"It will not be six months before the world tests Barack Obama like they did John Kennedy. The world is looking. We're about to elect a brilliant 47-year-old senator president of the United States of America.<br><br>\"Watch. We're going to have an international crisis, a generated crisis, to test the mettle of this guy.<br><br>\"And he's going to need help . . . to stand with him. Because it's not going to be apparent initially; it's not going to be apparent that we're right.\"<br><br><br>He's going to need help? I thought worlds hopes hinge on him being elected? Won't long time enemies embrace and put the past behind them? Won't crime, disease, misfortune and injustice cease to exist once he takes the oath? Isn't he the person we need? Didn't he pick this time in history to run?<br><br>HA!", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-21_16:52:25", "killed": false, "user_key": "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711340": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Got Hope?<br><br>The VP Candidate destroys his own campaigns propaganda! And Palins the idiot... MMMWHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-21_16:59:24", "killed": false, "user_key": "4bdf6585b2dc7e4dd2fbfc9d111f5936", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711341": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "One more thing<br><br>Just saw Mr. Obama on a podium that says 'Growing American Jobs'... lets see in his commercials he says he's not interested in CEO's (those people that found companies and provide jobs), he is going to force healthcare on those companies 'that can afford it', and raises taxes on capital gains for those that invest in companies so they can grow and provide new jobs. But he is going to provide a tax cut for companies for every new job that you hire an American for. My dear senator there is not a tax break in the world that can offset the salary differential between onshore and offshore. Like he doesn't know it. More empty bumper sticker policy.<br><br>Nothing tops Joe Biden making the case for McCain though...", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-21_17:15:05", "killed": false, "user_key": "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711342": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I was on a plane with this passenger who was reading \"The Post-American World\" and he told me a total stranger had walked up to him and said it was unpatriotic to read that book...", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-21_22:46:45", "killed": false, "user_key": "fc9eab3b2b2c3199a193e8c65c3aae1b", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711343": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Because of the title, or because it was a book?", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-22_00:53:55", "killed": false, "user_key": "64c9b71310898a05c04917efc1508fc9", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711344": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I'm a wee late to the game here but this was such a good post (and set of comments) I thought I would add the following...<br><br>Robert - there's an old adage in the journalism business that says if you don't challenge 50% of your audience w/an op ed piece, then you wrote a crappy piece.<br><br>3 other points:<br>- Since when were we taught (in America) that socialist doctrine for medicine, infrastructure, education (and other essential needs) were bad things? Our founding fathers debated this at length and there are several historic documents that talk to their agreement than much of this was to be needed to have a gov't \"by the people, and for the people.\" Go read what Monroe or Adams wrote about this (or even Jefferson). Either people have forgotten what they were taught in middle school or they're confusing what they may have learned about the 20th century and the grand ideological experiments run around the world (or they were asleep in school and never really learned about this stuff at all).<br><br>- We do not live in a democracy, we live in a Republic. The reason that our founding fathers chose a republic as the form of gov't for our country was because they agreed (after much debate) that many of the would-be citizens of this young country would not be smart enough to rule themselves in a more democratic system.<br><br>After reading many of the comments to your original post it should be obvious to all why our founding fathers were correct in this key assumption. The unwillingness to participate in open dialogue by some of your readers is disappointing, yet speaks exactly to this point.<br><br>- The commentary (by some of your readers) on \"security\" is woefully misguided. If we had done more to balance our energy needs a decade ago (through developing alternatives to oil) we would have been in a much different position re: the tensions in the Middle East, and the events that led up to 9/11. Over the last 8 years we have not made the US more \"secure\" - we have actually made it more vulnerable socially, politically, and economically (this is easily measured in the number of true allies we have, our trading partners (the largest being China), and dropping value of the dollar worldwide.<br><br>Robert - your post was a good one - it caused thought and discourse. This country needs more discourse...(not rants...)<br><br>And as for those that won't follow your blog anymore - get a life - this is exactly how society used to discuss these types of nationally important topics (but these folks were also probably the ones that thought \"Gulliver's Travels\" was just a good story if/when they read it in HS)", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-22_03:35:58", "killed": false, "user_key": "9fad2b00fd789b8d50f35183aba2356f", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711345": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Jesse, he did not elaborate but to Robert's theme, we are reading in to a whole bunch of little things and jumping to emotional conclusions.<br><br>It would have been so much better if the comment had been on the lines of \"Did you know the author is also a Newsweek editor, and Newsweek tends to be a liberal publication?\" and not pushing the patriotic button...", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-22_05:38:00", "killed": false, "user_key": "fc9eab3b2b2c3199a193e8c65c3aae1b", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711346": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "'Unpatriotic'.. 'Unamerican'.. 'I believe'... you guys are fighting over things out of your control.. you really think you have a choice in this election? In the last 2 elections? Don't you get it? The puppets you see on TV for both parties are fueled by the same money machine, beholden to the same interests. We are idiots in the first degree, don't you get it? Palin? Biden? Obama? McCain? Are you kidding me? People think for yourselves and not fall into the 'I Believe' diatribes the money machine has designed for you.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-22_07:16:59", "killed": false, "user_key": "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711347": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "We are human beings first. Whatever else we identify with afterwards is an abstraction from that whole by the mind. Labels based on associations formed from opinions separate us from our true identity.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-22_10:57:07", "killed": false, "user_key": "c43d6187a525c7c55c7f35ad53f06b8c", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711348": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "My wife always says, \"I'm not Dutch, I'm not Peruvian, I'm just a citizen of this world\"....", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-22_11:18:01", "killed": false, "user_key": "39cee37f0cfa4d2c9806ca4fb4982d61", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711349": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Put aside all tech stuff and let's just read that once again. Very natural, very human, very true. The point is to keep our own believes with ourselves and think on a very wider level, that of being Humans. The actions should be based on 'intelligence' and not arrogance or proud of being powerful in one way or the other.<br>The point here is not hammering the 'I am not this or that' it's more about being a part of the greater boundaries this World is limited to.<br><br>Appreciate your thoughts and words, well put.<br><br>Regards,", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-23_01:23:18", "killed": false, "user_key": "82d7f7609669eea274c206378e3ac29c", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711350": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I am quite surprised as to why my comment was delete :s", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-23_02:30:19", "killed": false, "user_key": "e3c324a94d9c7529607a1d229424dbab", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711351": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "republicans have been in control of congress for the last 12 of 14 years.<br><br>enough blaming everything on 2 years of dems bare majority in congress. 1 vote advantage in senate does not spell in power, nor excuse for a pathetic, know-nothing, no-result 8 years.<br><br>btw, republicans haven\u2019t balanced anything including the budget ever. scared of the left ruining the country? gimme\u2019 a break.<br><br>first see figure 3 @ <a href=\"http://www.cedarcomm.com/%7Estevelm1/usdebt.htm\" rel=\"nofollow\">http://www.cedarcomm.com/~stevelm1/usdebt.htm</a><br><br>there you find a graph that illustrates the myth that you can cut taxes and increase spending and expect to get increased government revenue. Since Johnson, every Democrat has increased revenue more than spending. However the opposite\u2019s true under all five Republican Presidents since Nixon, government revenue has decreased and spending has increased. This is unambiguous proof that cutting taxes does not increase revenue. Yet John McCain is still trying to sell that old canard.<br><br>The contrast between Clinton\u2019s tax policies and W\u2019s are dramatically evident from this data. By setting up taxes to help the middle class and small business Clinton stimulated the economy so much that we saw the largest increase in government revenue in history. Neocon\u2019s \u201ctrickle down\u201d dogma clearly does not work. You cut taxes and you reduce government revenue. Duh. That is the evidence, no matter how many times we are told you must make the wealthy just a little richer to improve the economy. Numbers show it does not work\u2026", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-22_13:54:15", "killed": false, "user_key": "dacc532e02e9acf8e5d527330a2041ec", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711352": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Robert, you are right.  You are not an \"American\", at least by historical standards.  However, you appear to either naive or mentally challenged.<br><br>You are human - how quaint.  I wonder if you would be so glib if you were a Christian in Afghanistan.  A Hindu in western Kashmir.  A Muslim in Xinjiang.<br><br>FYI, I am neither Republican or Democrat. I vote the person.  I vote the issue.<br><br><br>Stem cell research - in favor of it.  As much of it as PRIVATE ENTERPRISE wants to buy.  I do not think government should be in the business of taking tax dollars from families trying to pay for a house and childrens' education and spending in on stem cell research.<br><br>Same sex marriage - against it personally BUT should be up to each state legislature and electorate to decide.  NOT the judiciary.<br><br>Public transportation - very much in favor of it but smart enough to recognize that it works best in high population density areas, ie large cities, small countries, etc.<br><br>Nuclear power - in favor it.  If only there were not so many lawsuits filed against every application . . . .<br><br>Development of our own energy resources - in favor of it.  Too bad (anti-American imo) that government owns so much of the land that contains the energy resources<br><br>Immigration - very much in favor of it.  But there are practical limits.  If I have a swimming pool, I should have the right to limit my neighbors' use of that pool.  Fences are part of that the process whereby use is controlled.<br><br>Countries without borders trend toward anarchy.  Countries without immigration trend toward xenophobia.  History teaches that any group of people can only integrate so many newcomers at any one time.<br><br>FYI, I have my doctorate from an American university but have lived and worked overseas (3 different countries) for 16 years.  I speak 3 languages.<br><br>And I am proud to be an American because of the freedom that is so prevalent in the US and because of all that Americans have accomplished in the world for the last 200+ years.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-22_15:01:42", "killed": false, "user_key": "ee8fbf068dcc44f4e59209a46e59aab4", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711353": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Lots of discussion, some usefull, some ... well.<br><br>I'm always amused by the \"if you dont like it, leave it\" argument.  My first retort is \"If you dont want this to be the best country it can be, then YOU leave, because YOU dont love it enough\"\".  Unfortunately, its a bit long for a bumper sticker.<br><br>One issues I (as a non american) is the tenor of many americans (most recently, the right-wing and their supporters) who lecture the rest of us on how important and special the freedom that Americans fought and ided for are.  These are the same americans who support supression of freedom at home (TSA, etc) and abroad (extraordinary renditions, torture &amp;tc).<br><br>The WHOLE WORLD (including Americans) support the ideals of the US Constitution, and the \"American Dream\".  A lot of us (including Americans) are perceptive enough to see when these ideals are not being met.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-22_21:14:19", "killed": false, "user_key": "a9e41d14e2d0e4b2af819d0fbde85f9a", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711354": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "The most obvious quotes was Johnson's \"Patriotism is the last refuge of a scoundrel.\", but I thought this apropos<br>\"It is unpleasing to represent our affairs to our own disadvantage; yet it is necessary to shew the evils which we desire to be removed.\"<br>Johnson: Introduction to the Political State of Great Britain<br><a href=\"http://www.samueljohnson.com/introgb.html\" rel=\"nofollow\">http://www.samueljohnson.com/introgb.html</a><br><br>That Robert is attacked for the view that so much of the political debate trades on the view that to oppose an idea or belief is to be Un American shows that debate hasn't moved on since 1756.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-23_00:01:14", "killed": false, "user_key": "b447c85ba5c1c57dfe45d9cbc44ef5d6", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711355": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Once again repeat after me...Politicians don't give a DAMN about you. They don't give a DAMN about balanced budgets or any other issue. They only have beliefs that will get them elected. Stop being fools. Republican.. Democrat...<br>You think Obama gives a DAMN about you? You think he is going to spend every minute of being in the white house thinking about the 'middle class' (what is the middle class by the way.. that's right.. a straw man...) Or do think Obama will be commiserating with George Clooney and Oprah? Same goes for McCain. Its over. The republic is dead.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-23_09:15:59", "killed": false, "user_key": "4dba7a88cf5fd9f9674781c6814cda97", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711356": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "the average tax rate in Europe for a single person is 42%; the average tax rate for a married, double income family with two children in Europe is 36.1%<br><br>socialism is you giving up your rights to do things you want to do; socialism is the non-atheist form of communism<br><br>the objective is to keep illegal immigrants out, and send them back; we allow legal immigrants in; we're paying for the illegal immigrants; the legal immigrants are supporting themselves<br><br>the constitution does not give the children of illegal immigrants the right to citizenship; it only provides citizenship to those people who agree and choose to live under the jurisdiction of our government and abide by our laws", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-23_09:19:05", "killed": false, "user_key": "675914db36adc736e74e546e9751cb78", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711357": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Ah, you might be an American, but you are for sure an idiot", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-23_12:43:42", "killed": false, "user_key": "63f289d0adff09dc3ff2ce690a25ab3e", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711358": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "In response to your last statement ...<br><br>Just my thoughts after hanging out with lots of non-Americans this past week in Greensboro, North Carolina. You can tell them, can\u2019t you? They wear Obama buttons and have Obama stickers on their cars.<br><br>You're clearly implying that anyone support McCain is un-American.  This is the kind of claims that Obama supporters whine is spewed against them by the right.  More hypocritical bullshit which is not that much different from all the race-baiting by the Obama campaign - when they're the only ones bringing up race!", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-23_13:02:43", "killed": false, "user_key": "71e1bf7d8b02e29f6e685f68d19dc020", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711359": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Bruno, you are mixed up!  Besides Scoby's tongue in cheek monologue, the ONLY folks spewing the words: anti-American, unAmerican or even Pro-American are Republicans AND McCain supporters.<br>I suppose the diversity of the Democratic party gives us the understanding that people don't have to look alike, smell alike, think alike or worship alike in order to be Americans.  True Americans believe in each other!", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-23_21:29:32", "killed": false, "user_key": "d986b6b864733f5797a547fa6df939fd", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711360": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Ah.......... Nationalism<br>The last refuge of the scoundrel!!<br>This is an interesting post but no one is giving any answers to the problems of the bit of dirt you lot live on.<br>You have an unfair voting system. Your government is hand in glove with the oil companies and china to prevent europe acting on climate change to the detriment of all of us on the planet.(including the bit you live on)<br>Your politicians spend all their time prostituting themselves raising money from business to get themselves re-elected. Your presidential nominees are bookends of the same political party. The millions raised to get elected could be spent on solar power owned by the taxpayer for the benefit of all. That's socialism. Everybody has a gun I suppose this makes you all feel like one tough cowboy. GET A LIFE!!<br>What America needs is a second political party preferably to the left or are you all scared?<br>I know! come and live in Australia and have fun!", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-26_05:36:09", "killed": false, "user_key": "f18261069ad8030b2f468942b819f44f", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711361": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Ah.......... Nationalism<br>The last refuge of the scoundrel!!<br>This is an interesting post but no one is giving any answers to the problems of the bit of dirt you lot live on.<br>You have an unfair voting system. Your government is hand in glove with the oil companies and china to prevent europe acting on climate change to the detriment of all of us on the planet.(including the bit you live on)<br>Your politicians spend all their time prostituting themselves raising money from business to get themselves re-elected. Your presidential nominees are bookends of the same political party. The millions raised to get elected could be spent on solar power owned by the taxpayer for the benefit of all. That's socialism. Everybody has a gun I suppose this makes you all feel like one tough cowboy. GET A LIFE!!<br>What America needs is a second political party preferably to the left or are you all scared?<br>I know! come and live in Australia and have fun!<br>Oh yes and apologise to the black  citizens for what your ancestors did to them , you know -SLAVERY", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-26_05:39:32", "killed": false, "user_key": "f18261069ad8030b2f468942b819f44f", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711362": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "To those that have bashed America:<br><br>Then you pay back what you owe...There isn't a nation on this planet that hasn't been rescued, bailed out in time of need by the good old US.  Maybe we should repossess Europe since guess who rebuilt that after WWII.<br><br>The problem here is exactly that we think America should be a democratic society when in FACT we are a Representative Republic and rightfully so.<br><br>Problem is we don't hold our leaders accountable.  No term limits for Congress.  All that is required to vote is survive to 18 yrs old and be a US citizen...hmm not a very selective matter for choosing the future of a country and we have paid for that.  Pay taxes then vote... then you have a skin in the game.<br><br>Stand alone legislation no more pork.  Let some of these other countries swim on their own without the billions handed out every year in economic aid.  And we sure don't really need any more toy arrows purchased with our tax dollars.<br><br>Personally I'd like to see every incumbent voted out.  A message.  You are screwing this up and we won't tolerate it any longer.  $850B bail out with so much pork; length longer than our constitution.  They should all be fired immediately.  And how many of the folks that really got screwed got bailed out?  Considering the $10M bonuses handed out with our tax dollars I'd say the bill was sure worth it.<br><br>I wonder if Obama is going to redistribute his $600M to the masses that didn't work for it too....seriously freaking doubt that.<br><br>Bottom line is our wealth distribution should be:  Work=Eat  Don't work = go find a church to donate some food to you because this aint Sherwood Forrest.  I'm all for helping people; helping people help themselves.", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-26_11:24:54", "killed": false, "user_key": "a89ae471ae837e4ca9c88305b786f10e", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711363": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "Oh my god, you're guys' ignorance is astounding!<br><br>\"Socialized\" goods you are hereby not allowed to use, lest ye be hypocrites:<br><br>Schools, universities, government research (back to 1850 with ya!), the postal service, water, national defense agencies, ROADS, virtually any good or service contingent to the use of public infrastructure ... see, I can go on all day.  You're not against formal socialism, you're against the social contract, which was only THE founding principle of our country.  I get it though, screw the constitution--ME, ME, ME, every pseudo-capitalist individualist for himself!<br><br>And oh, whoops!  It's not like your own party expanded government to its largest measure under \"keeping government small\" principles, socializing a $10,000,000,000/mo. war, socializing tax breaks for conservative \"faith-based\" groups, socializing tax breaks for the wealthy, socializing corporate rights to go on a full assault against the environment...<br>&gt;&gt;&gt; socializing ignorance!<br><br>And never mind the fact that formally \"socialist\" Scandinavian countries are some of the most stable and crime-free places in the world, simply because they don't suppress the idea that constitutional rights to equality aren't just symbolic, but are economic in nature.  Religion also has a striking position as a minority in those countries.  Hm...interesting.  Not like America, where religion walks lock-step with \"conservative\" principles toward dissolving the separation of church and state, toward the cause of being pro-war yet pro-life at the same time, toward abusing individual rights and equality of opportunity, and forcing their anti-pluralistic ignorance down everyone else's throat.  Plug your nose and swallow!  As rats do ravin down their proper bane...", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-27_15:22:29", "killed": false, "user_key": "64c9b71310898a05c04917efc1508fc9", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711364": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I believe that science, technology, and education should win over religion.<br><br>Amen to that :*)<br><br>check out <a href=\"http://www.slate.com/id/2203120/\" rel=\"nofollow\">http://www.slate.com/id/2203120/</a>", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-10-28_11:58:37", "killed": false, "user_key": "0112c487966acaaef7a680214a3d9a50", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "9711365": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "So George doesn't know what the G20 is.<br>Too hard.<br>Should have asked him if he knew what the G8 was first", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2008-11-14_07:45:45", "killed": false, "user_key": "f18261069ad8030b2f468942b819f44f", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "1 year ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}, "11711441": {"up_voted": false, "ip": "", "has_replies": false, "message": "I am not an American either but I do live here, I do think that investing outside of america and the dollar right now is prudent as they are printing money so fast it is devaluing and will soon end up like the Lira....", "is_last_child": false, "can_reply": false, "down_voted": false, "real_date": "2009-06-24_23:12:00", "killed": false, "user_key": "0f18cb72cd66ede9a1f64230b52f7029", "has_been_anonymized": false, "edited": false, "author_is_moderator": false, "from_request_user": null, "votable": true, "date": "5 months ago", "approved": true, "num_replies": 0, "is_first_child": false, "email": "", "parent_post_id": null, "depth": 0, "points": 0, "author_is_creator": false, "is_realtime": false}}, "integration": {"receiver_url": "", "theme": 4, "reply_position": true, "disqus_logo": false}, "timer": {"timer_url": "http://localhost:8005", "thread_id": "18356296", "user_id": "anonymous", "forum_id": "125200", "hash": -1352432650124600671}, "thread": {"total_posts": 0, "paginate": false, "per_page": 0, "slug": "i_am_not_an_american", "num_pages": 1, "days_alive": 0, "realtime_paused": true, "id": 18356296, "num_posts": 261, "closed": true, "queued": false, "killed": false}, "reactions_limit": 10, "context": {"show_reply": false, "use_fb_connect": true, "forum_facebook_key": "faaf467d0f47abde553c3b8e0e1b3570", "use_yahoo": false, "subscribed": false, "use_twitter_signin": true, "use_openid": false, "realtime_speed": 5000}, "reactions_start": 0, "settings": {"debug": false, "disqus_url": "http://disqus.com", "media_url": "http://media.disqus.com"}, "media_url": "http://media.disqus.com"};
	/* */ this.jsonData.cookie_messages = {"user_created": null, "post_has_profile": null, "post_twitter": null, "post_not_approved": null}; this.jsonData.session = {"url": null, "name": null, "email": null}; /* */

	
	this.curPageId = 'dsq-comments';

	this.frames = {};
};

var disqus_popup_reference = null;

if(typeof DsqLocal == 'undefined') {
	DsqLocal = {};
}



/**
 * Dsq.Strings: UI strings
 */
Dsq.Strings = new function() {
	this.ADD_NEW_COMMENT = "Add New Comment";
	this.LOG_INTO_DISQUS = "Log into DISQUS";
	this.USE_MEDIA = "Use Media";
	this.LOGOUT = "Logout";
	this.SHARING_OPTIONS = "Sharing options";
	this.SHARE_ON = "Share on";
	this.TWEET_THIS_COMMENT = "Tweet this comment";
	this.SHARE_ON_NEWSFEED = "Share on news feed";
	this.SEND_UPDATE_TO_YAHOO = "Send update to Yahoo!";
	this.REBLOG_ON = "Reblog on";
	this.CONFIGURE_OPTIONS = "Configure options";
	this.POST_AS = "Post as";
	this.SORT_BY = "Sort by";
	this.SUBSCRIBE_BY_EMAIL = "Subscribe by email";
	this.SUBSCRIBE_BY_RSS = "Subscribe by RSS";
	this.POPULAR_NOW = "Popular now";
	this.BEST_RATING = "Best Rating";
	this.NEWEST_FIRST = "Newest first";
	this.OLDEST_FIRST = "Oldest first";
	this.HIGHLIGHTED = "Highlighted";
	this.UNSUBSCRIBE = "Unsubscribe";
	this.REQUIRED = "Required";
	this.OPTIONAL = "Optional";
	this.YOU_ARE_COMMENTING_AS_A = "You are commenting as a";
	this.LOGIN_BELOW = "Login below";
	this.PLEASE_LOGIN_BELOW_TO_COMMENT = "Please login below to comment.";
	this.SUBSCRIBE_TO_ALL_COMMENTS_BY_EMAIL = "Subscribe to all comments by email";
	this.DO_NOT_SUBSCRIBE_TO_COMMENTS = "Do not subscribe to comments";
	this.REALTIME_UPDATING_IS = "Real-time updating is";
	this.ENABLED = "enabled";
	this.PAUSED = "paused";
	this.PAUSE = "Pause";
	this.RESUME = "Resume";
	this.SHOW = "Show";
	this.JUST_NOW = "Just now";
	this.REPLY = "Reply";
	this.EDIT = "Edit";
	this.FLAG = "Flag";
	this.MODERATE = "Moderate";
	this.CANCEL = "Cancel";
	this.REPLYING_TO = "Replying to";
	this.REPORT_MISSING_REACTIONS = "Report missing reactions";
	this.POST_A_COMMENT = "Post a comment";
	this.FLAG_INAPPROPRIATE_COMMENT = "Flag inappropriate comment";
	this.FLAGGED = "Flagged";
	this.NO = "No";
	this.YES = "Yes";
	this.NEVER_MIND = "Never mind";
	this.ARE_YOU_SURE_YOU_WOULD_LIKE_TO_REPORT_THIS_COMMENT_TO_A_MODERATOR = "Are you sure you would like to report this comment to a moderator";
	this.THIS_WILL_FLAG_COMMENTS_FOR_MODERATORS_TO_TAKE_ACTION = "This will flag comments for moderators to take action";
	this.TO_RATE_PLEASE_LOG_IN = "To rate, please log in";
	this.JUST_A_MOMENT = "Just a moment...";
	this.GUEST = "Guest";
	this.NAME = "Name";
	this.EMAIL = "Email";
  this.WEBSITE = "Website";
  this.SETTINGS = "Settings";
  this.MODERATOR_OPTIONS = "Moderator options: ";
  this.MODERATE_OPTIONS = "Moderate Options";

  // Thread moderator actions
  this.CLOSE_THREAD = "Close thread";
  this.OPEN_THREAD = "Open thread";
  this.REMOVE_THREAD = "Remove thread";
  this.RESTORE_THREAD = "Restore thread";
  this.ACTIONS = "Actions";
};
// Dsq.Strings

/**
 * Dsq.FmtStrings: functions that return interpolated UI strings
 */
Dsq.FmtStrings = new function() {
	// Seems we have to use named interpolation for Django to translate. Investigate more.
	this.LOGGED_IN_AS = function(username) {
		return Dsq.Utils.interpolate('Logged in as %(username)s', {username:username});
	};

	this.LOGOUT_FROM = function(disqus) {
		return Dsq.Utils.interpolate('Logout from %(disqus)s', {disqus:disqus});
	};

	this.SHOWING_COMMENTS_FULL = function(total, num) {
		if (num === 1) {
			return Dsq.Utils.interpolate("Showing <span id='dsq-num-posts'>%(num)s</span> of <span id='dsq-total-posts'>%(total)s</span> comment", {num:num, total:total});
		} else {
			return Dsq.Utils.interpolate("Showing <span id='dsq-num-posts'>%(num)s</span> of <span id='dsq-total-posts'>%(total)s</span> comments", {num:num, total:total});
		}
	};

	this.SHOWING_COMMENTS_WITHOUT_PAGINATION = function(num) {
		if (num === 1) {
			return Dsq.Utils.interpolate("Showing <span id='dsq-num-posts'>%(num)s</span> comment", {num:num});
		} else {
			return Dsq.Utils.interpolate("Showing <span id='dsq-num-posts'>%(num)s</span> comments", {num:num});
		}
	};

	this.NUMBER_OF_COMMENTS = function(num) {
		return Dsq.Utils.interpolate(
			(num == 1
				? '%(num)s comment'
				: '%(num)s comments'
			), {num:num});
	};

	this.NUMBER_OF_LIKES = function(num) {
		return Dsq.Utils.interpolate(
			(num == 1
				? '%(num)s like'
				: '%(num)s likes'
			), {num:num});
	};

	this.NUMBER_OF_POINTS = function(num) {
		return Dsq.Utils.interpolate(
			(num == 1
				? '%(num)s point'
				: '%(num)s points'
			), {num:num});
	};
};
// Dsq.FmtStrings





Dsq.CSRF_TOKEN = 'a2d140c59df8cd4ce27a20e0829cacd8';
Dsq.COMMENTS_RE = /(<li.*?id="?dsq-comment-(\d+)"?.*?>)((?:.|\s)*?)(<\/li>)/gim;
Dsq.POST_RE = /(<div.*?id="?dsq-comment-header-(\d+)"?.*?>)((?:.|\s)*?)(<\/div>)\s*(<div.*?class="?dsq-comment-body"?.*?>)((?:.|\s)*)(<\/div>)/gim;
Dsq.POST_BODY_RE = /\s*(<div.*?id="?dsq-comment-message-(\d+)"?.*?>)((?:.|\s)*)(<\/div>)/gim;
// HACK: Safari ends with "-->" while other browsers end with "--&gt;" as expected.
Dsq.MEDIA_POST_RE = /&lt;!--\[(.*?)\]--(?:>|&gt;)/gim;



var FragmentPacket = function(reader, writer, writer_url, is_child, receiveCallback) {
	var that = this;
	this.reader = reader;
	this.writer = writer;
	this.writer_url = writer_url;

	this.is_child = is_child || false;
	this.receiveCallback = receiveCallback;

	this._lastHash = null;

	this._accumMsg = '';

	this._lastSeqno = 0;

	this.MAX_DATA_LEN	= 1024;

	this.WAIT_TIME		= 10;

	this.READY		= 0x1;
	this.WRITING	= 0x2;
	this.FIN		= 0x4;
	this.ACK		= 0x8;

};

FragmentPacket.prototype.createListener = function() {
	var that = this;
	var listener = function() {
		that.recv();
	};
	return window.setInterval(listener, 10);
};

FragmentPacket.prototype.log = function(msg) {



};

FragmentPacket.prototype.recv = function() {
	var hash;
	if (/MSIE/.test(navigator.userAgent)) {

		hash = this.reader.name;
	} else {

		var hashIndex = this.reader.location.href.indexOf('#');
		if (hashIndex == -1) {
			return;
		}
		hash = this.reader.location.href.substring(hashIndex+1);
	}
	var flags = parseInt(hash.substring(0, 4), 10);
	var seqno = parseInt(hash.substring(4, 24), 10);
	var data  = hash.substring(24);

	if (this._lastHash !== hash) {
		this._lastHash = hash;
		this.log('recv: ' + hash);

		this.log(' flags: ' + flags);
		this.log(' seqno: ' + seqno + ' len: ' + hash.substring(4, 24).length + ' (' + hash.substring(4, 24) + ')');
		this.log(' data: ' + data + ' len: ' + data.length);

		this._lastSeqno = seqno;

		if (flags & this.WRITING) {
			this._accumMsg += data;
			this.sendFlag(this.ACK, seqno);
			if (flags & this.FIN) {
				this.log('recv finished: ' + decodeURIComponent(this._accumMsg));
				this.receiveCallback(decodeURIComponent(this._accumMsg));

				this._accumMsg = '';

				this.sendFlag(this.READY | this.ACK, this._lastSeqno);
			}
		}
	}

	return {
		flags: flags,
		seqno: seqno,
		data: data
	};
};

FragmentPacket.prototype.sendRawPacket = function(packet) {
	if (/MSIE/.test(navigator.userAgent)) {
		this.writer.name = packet;
	} else {

		this.writer.location.href = this.writer_url + '#' + packet;
	}

};

FragmentPacket.prototype.sendFlag = function(flag, seqno) {
	this.sendRawPacket(this._zerofill(flag, 4) + this._zerofill(seqno, 20));
};

FragmentPacket.prototype.send = function(msg) {
	this._send(0, encodeURIComponent(msg));
};

FragmentPacket.prototype._send = function(packetNum, msg) {
	var that = this;
	var recvBuf = this.recv();

	if (packetNum === 0) {

		if (!(recvBuf.flags & this.READY)) {
			this.log('client is not ready, waiting...');
			window.setTimeout(function() { that._send(packetNum, msg); }, this.WAIT_TIME);
			return;
		}
	} else {

		if (!( (recvBuf.flags & this.ACK) && (recvBuf.seqno === this._lastSeqno) )) {
			this.log('waiting for ack from client...');
			window.setTimeout(function() { that._send(packetNum, msg); }, this.WAIT_TIME);
			return;
		} else {
			this.log('received ack: ' + this._lastSeqno + ' ' + recvBuf.seqno);
		}
	}

	var flags = this.WRITING;
	var num_packets = Math.ceil(msg.length / this.MAX_DATA_LEN);
	this.log('num_packets: ' + num_packets);

	if (num_packets === packetNum) {

		this.log('message successfully sent!');
		this.sendFlag(this.READY | this.ACK, this._lastSeqno);
		return true;
	}

	this._lastSeqno++;

	if (packetNum == num_packets-1) {
		flags |= this.FIN;
	}

	var data = msg.substring(packetNum * this.MAX_DATA_LEN, (packetNum+1) * this.MAX_DATA_LEN);
	var packet = this._zerofill(flags, 4) + this._zerofill(this._lastSeqno, 20) + data;

	this.log('sending raw packet: ' + packet);
	this.sendRawPacket(packet);

	return this._send(packetNum + 1, msg);
};

FragmentPacket.prototype._zerofill = function(num, width) {
	var retval = num.toString();
	var retval_len = retval.length;
	for (var i = 0; i < width - retval_len; i++) {
		retval = '0' + retval;
	}
	return retval;
};

var PostMessagePacket = function(receiver, receiveCallback, id, receiverId) {
	var that = this;
	this.receiver = receiver;
	this.receiveCallback = receiveCallback;
	this.id = id;


	this.receiverId = receiverId;
};

PostMessagePacket.prototype.createListener = function() {
	var that = this;

	var listener = function(e) {

		if (!that.id) {
			that.id = e.data;
			return;
		}


		var id = e.data.split(';')[0];
		if (id !== that.id) {
			return;
		}
		var data = e.data.substring(e.data.indexOf(';') + 1);

		that.receiveCallback(data);
	};

	if (typeof window.attachEvent == 'function') {
		window.attachEvent('onmessage', listener);
	} else if (typeof window.addEventListener == 'function') {
		window.addEventListener('message', listener, false);
	} else {
		throw new Error('No method found to create event listener for PostMessagePacket.');
	}
};

PostMessagePacket.prototype.send = function(msg) {



	var needs_reget = false;
	try {
		if (typeof this.receiver.id == 'undefined' || typeof this.receiver.postMessage == 'undefined') {
			needs_reget = true;
		}
	} catch(e) {


	}
	if (needs_reget && typeof this.receiverId != 'undefined') {
		this.receiver = document.getElementById(this.receiverId).contentWindow;
	}

	var packet;
	if (!msg) {

		packet = this.id;
	} else {
		packet = this.id + ';' + msg;
	}
	this.receiver.postMessage(packet, '*');
};

PostMessagePacket._last_unique_id = null;
PostMessagePacket._get_unique_id = function() {
	var id = (new Date()).getTime();
	if (id == PostMessagePacket._last_unique_id) {
		id++;
	}
	PostMessagePacket._last_unique_id = id;
	return id.toString();
};

var JsonRpc = function() {

	this.ids = {};

	this.objectToJSON = function(obj) {
		var json = '';
		var results = [];

		if (obj === undefined || obj === null) {
			return 'null';
		}

		switch (obj.constructor) {
			case Object:
				for (var property in obj) {
					if (obj.hasOwnProperty(property)) {
						results.push(this.objectToJSON(property) + ': ' + this.objectToJSON(obj[property]));
					}
				}
				json = '{' + results.join(', ') + '}';
				break;
			case Array:
				for (var i = 0; i < obj.length; i++) {
					results.push(this.objectToJSON(obj[i]));
				}
				json = '[' + results.join(', ') + ']';
				break;
			case Number:
			case Boolean:
				json = obj.toString();
				break;
			case String:

				var specialChars = {'\b': '\\b', '\t': '\\t', '\n': '\\n', '\f': '\\f', '\r': '\\r', '\\': '\\\\'};

				json = obj.replace(/[\x00-\x1f\\]/g, function(match) {
					var ch = specialChars[match];
					return ch ? ch : '\\u00' + match.charCodeAt().toPaddedString(2, 16);
				});

				json = '"' + json.replace(/"/g, '\\"') + '"';
				break;
			default:

				json = 'null';
				break;
		}

		return json;
	};

	this.createHandler = function(send_func, registered_funcs) {
		var that = this;
		var handler = function(message) {

			try {
				var rpc = eval('(' + message + ')');
			} catch(e) {
				alert('bad JSON: ' + message);
				return;
			}
			if (rpc.method) {

				if (!registered_funcs[rpc.method]) {
					return;
				}

				var retval = registered_funcs[rpc.method].apply(null, rpc.params);
				if (rpc.id) {
					var response = {
						result: retval,
						error: null,	// TODO
						id: rpc.id
					};
					send_func(that.objectToJSON(response));
				}
			} else if(rpc.result) {

				if (!that.ids[rpc.id]) {
					return;
				}

				that.ids[rpc.id](rpc.result);
				delete that.ids[rpc.id];
			}
		};
		return handler;
	};

	this.execute = function(send_func, method, params, response_callback) {
		response_callback = response_callback || null;
		var id = (response_callback) ? (new Date()).getTime() : null;

		var request = {
			method: method,
			params: params,
			id: id
		};

		send_func(this.objectToJSON(request));

		if (id) {
			this.ids[id] = response_callback;
		}
	};
};
JsonRpc = new JsonRpc();

var ParentMessenger = function(childUrl, receiverUrl, container, receiveCallback) {


	if (navigator.userAgent.indexOf('Safari') >= 0 && parseInt(navigator.userAgent.substring(navigator.userAgent.indexOf('Version/') + 8), 10) == 3) {
		throw new Error("unsupported.");
	} else if (window.opera) {
		throw new Error("unsupported.");
	}



	if (!receiverUrl &&
		navigator.userAgent.indexOf('Gecko') >= 0 &&
		parseFloat(navigator.userAgent.slice(navigator.userAgent.indexOf('rv:') + 3, navigator.userAgent.indexOf('rv:') + 6)) < 1.9) {
		throw new Error("unsupported.");
	}


	if (/msie/i.test(navigator.userAgent) && !/opera/i.test(navigator.userAgent)) {


		if (document.domain == window.location.hostname) {
			receiverUrl = '';
		}
	}

	var that = this;
	this.childUrl = childUrl;
	this.receiverUrl = receiverUrl;
	this.container = container || document.body;

	this.packetHandler = null;


	this._ready = false;
	this._error = false;


	var _createReceiverForFragmentPacket = function() {

		that.receiver = document.createElement('iframe');
		that.receiver.src = receiverUrl;
		that.receiver.id = 'receiver_' + (new Date()).getTime();
		that.receiver.name = that.receiver.id;

		that.receiver.frameBorder = '0';
		that.receiver.frameSpacing = '0';
		that.receiver.style.borderStyle = 'none';

		var receiver_onload = function() {
			var receiver = document.getElementById(that.receiver.id).contentWindow;

			try {
				receiver.document.body.innerHTML = '';
			} catch(e) {

				that._error = true;
			}
			receiver.document.body.style.padding = '0px';
			receiver.document.body.style.margin = '0px';

			var child = receiver.document.createElement('iframe');
			child.id = 'child';
			child.name = 'child';
			child.src = that.childUrl;

			child.frameBorder = '0';
			child.frameSpacing = '0';
			child.style.borderStyle = 'none';
			child.style.width = '100%';
			child.style.height = '100%';
			receiver.document.body.appendChild(child);

			that.child = receiver.document.getElementById('child').contentWindow;
			that.receiver = receiver;

			that.packetHandler = new FragmentPacket(that.receiver, that.child, that.childUrl, false, receiveCallback);

			that._listener = that.packetHandler.createListener();

			that.packetHandler.sendFlag(that.packetHandler.READY, 0);

			that._ready = true;
		};

		that.receiver.onreadystatechange = function() {
			if (this.readyState == 'complete') {
				receiver_onload();
			}
		};

		that.receiver.onload = receiver_onload;







		if (Dsq.Utils.ie) {
			if (that.container.clientWidth === 0) {

				var _waitForWidth = function() {
					if (that.container.clientWidth > 0) {
						Dsq.Utils.fixIframesIE(that.container.id);
					} else {
						window.setTimeout(_waitForWidth, 100);
					}
				};
				_waitForWidth();

				that._once = false;
				that.receiver.onresize = function() {
					if (!that._once) {
						Dsq.Utils.fixIframesIE(that.container.id);
					}
					that._once = true;
				};
			}
		}

		that.container.appendChild(that.receiver);
	};


	var _createReceiverForPostMessage = function() {

		var receiver_onload = function() {

			that.packetHandler.send();
			that._ready = true;
		};

		var id = PostMessagePacket._get_unique_id();
		var receiverId = 'child_' + id;


		ParentMessenger['_receiver_onload_' + receiverId] = receiver_onload;

		that.container.innerHTML += '<iframe ' +
			'src="' + childUrl + '" ' +
			'id="' + receiverId + '" ' +
			'name="' + receiverId + '" ' +
			'onload="ParentMessenger._receiver_onload_' + receiverId +'();" ' +
			'></iframe>';

		that.receiver = document.getElementById(receiverId).contentWindow;
		that.packetHandler = new PostMessagePacket(that.receiver, receiveCallback, id, receiverId);
		that._listener = that.packetHandler.createListener();
	};

	if (typeof window.postMessage == 'function') {
		_createReceiverForPostMessage();
	} else {
		_createReceiverForFragmentPacket();
	}

};

ParentMessenger.prototype.sendMessage = function(message) {
	var that = this;
	if (!this._ready) {

		window.setTimeout(function() { that.sendMessage(message); }, 10);
		return;
	}
	this.packetHandler.send(message);
	return true;
};

Dsq.NewFrames = function(url) {
	this.url = url;
};

Dsq.NewFrames.prototype.init = function(onFailure) {
	var that = this;

	try {
		this.messenger = new ParentMessenger(this.url, Dsq.jsonData.integration.receiver_url, this.container, this.receive_callback);
	} catch(e) {
		if (typeof onFailure == 'function') {
			onFailure();
		}
	}

	if (typeof onFailure == 'function') {
		var iId = window.setInterval(function() {
			if (typeof that.messenger == 'undefined') {
				window.clearInterval(iId);
				return;
			}
			if (that.messenger._ready) {
				window.clearInterval(iId);
			} else if (that.messenger._error) {
				window.clearInterval(iId);
				onFailure();
			}
		}, 10);
	}
};

Dsq.NewFrames.prototype._execute = function(method, args, callback) {
	var that = this;
	if (typeof that.messenger == 'undefined') {
		return false;
	}
	JsonRpc.execute(
		function(msg) { that.messenger.sendMessage(msg); },
		method,
		args || [],
		callback);
	return true;
};

Dsq.ReplyFrame = function(container, parent_post_id) {
	var that = this;
	this.container = container;
	this.parent_post_id = parent_post_id;

	var sendFunc = function(msg) {

		Dsq.Debug.log('Dsq.ReplyFrame.sendFunc');
		that.messenger.sendMessage(msg);
	};


	var postComment_onSuccess = function(response) {
		Dsq.jsonData.posts[response.message.id] = response.message.post_meta;
		if (!Dsq.jsonData.users[response.message.post_meta.user_key]) {
			Dsq.jsonData.users[response.message.post_meta.user_key] = response.message.user_meta;
		}


		var reply_position = (typeof(disqus_insert_wrt_sort) == 'undefined' 
			? (Dsq.jsonData.forum.reply_position ? -1 : null) 
			: (Dsq.jsonData.request.sort == 2 ? null : -1));
		
		if (response.message.post_meta.approved) {
			Dsq.Post.insert(response.message.post_meta.parent_post_id || reply_position, response.message.id, response.message.post_meta.message);
		}

		Dsq.Templates.postComment_onSuccess(response, parent_post_id, response.message.id);
	};

	var postComment_onFailure = function(response) {
		Dsq.Popup.popModal(response.message, 'Error');
		Dsq.Templates.postComment_onFailure(response, parent_post_id, response.message.id);
	};

	var editComment_onSuccess = function(response) {
		var post_id = parent_post_id;
		var message = Dsq.$('dsq-comment-message-' + post_id);
		
		message.innerHTML = response.message;
		Dsq.Templates.toggleEdit(post_id);
		Dsq.Templates.setLoadingButton(false);
	};
	
	var editComment_onFailure = function(response) {
		var post_id = parent_post_id;
		
		Dsq.Popup.popModal('Sorry, there was an error editing this comment.', 'Edit Error');
		Dsq.Templates.toggleEdit(post_id);
		Dsq.Templates.setLoadingButton(false);
	};

	var getUserByEmail_onSuccess = function(response) {
		var msg = response.message;
		var fields = Dsq.Templates.getFormFields(parent_post_id);

		if (msg.username) {

			Dsq.Templates.lightboxAuthenticate(parent_post_id, 'login', {
				'username': msg.username,
				'display_name': msg.display_name,
				'avatar_url': msg.avatar_url,
				'verified': msg.verified,
				'email': fields.email.value
			});
		} else {

			Dsq.Templates.lightboxAuthenticate(parent_post_id, 'register');
		}
	};

	var validateAuth_onSuccess = function(response, auth_choice) {
		Dsq.Templates.postComment(parent_post_id, null, true, auth_choice);
	};

	var validateAuth_onFailure = function(response, auth_choice) {
		var pid = parent_post_id ? '-' + parent_post_id : '';
		var msg = response.message;

		if (auth_choice == 'register') {
			var fields = ['email', 'username', 'password'];

			for (var i = 0; i < fields.length; i++) {
				var field = fields[i];
				var errorDiv = Dsq.$('dsq-' + field + '-errors' + pid);

				if (msg[field]) {
					errorDiv.innerHTML = msg[field];
				} else {
					errorDiv.innerHTML = '';
				}
			}
		} else if (auth_choice == 'login') {
			Dsq.$('dsq-lightbox-errors' + pid).innerHTML = '<p>We couldn\'t log you in. Please verify your login.</p>';
		}
		
		Dsq.Templates.setLoadingButton(false);
	};

	this.receive_callback = JsonRpc.createHandler(sendFunc, {
		'postComment.onSuccess': postComment_onSuccess,
		'postComment.onFailure': postComment_onFailure,
		'editComment.onSuccess': editComment_onSuccess,
		'editComment.onFailure': editComment_onFailure,		
		'getUserByEmail.onSuccess': getUserByEmail_onSuccess,
		'validateAuth.onSuccess': validateAuth_onSuccess,
		'validateAuth.onFailure': validateAuth_onFailure,
		'reload': function() { window.location.reload(); }
	});

	this.url = Dsq.Urls.REPLY +
		'?' + (new Date()).getTime() +
		'&f=scobleizer' +
		'&t=i_am_not_an_american' +
		'&ff=' + Dsq.Thread.ff +
		'&default_text=' + encodeURIComponent(disqus_default_text) +
		'&ifrs=' + encodeURIComponent(disqus_iframe_css);
	if (this.parent_post_id) {
		this.url += '&parent_post=' + this.parent_post_id;
	}
};

Dsq.ReplyFrame.prototype = new Dsq.NewFrames(Dsq.ReplyFrame.url);

Dsq.ReplyFrame.prototype.post = function(author_name, author_email, author_url, authenticate, sharing_services, subscribe) {
	this._execute('postComment', [author_name, author_email, author_url, authenticate, sharing_services, subscribe]);
};

Dsq.ReplyFrame.prototype.edit = function(post_id, message) {
	this._execute('editComment', [post_id, message]);
};

Dsq.ReplyFrame.prototype.setState = function(parent_post_id, depth) {
	this._execute('setState', [parent_post_id, depth]);
};

Dsq.ReplyFrame.prototype.getUserByEmail = function(email) {
	this._execute('getUserByEmail', [email]);
};

Dsq.ReplyFrame.prototype.validateAuth = function(auth_choice, email, username, password) {
	this._execute('validateAuth', [auth_choice, email, username, password]);
};

Dsq.ReplyFrame.prototype.authenticateFacebook = function(session, forum_url) {
	this._execute('authenticateFacebook', [session, forum_url]);
};

	Dsq.Facebook = function() {
	var that = this;

	var handleSessionData = function(session) {

		var forum_url = Dsq.jsonData.forum.url;




		if (typeof disqus_facebook_forum != 'undefined') {
			forum_url = disqus_facebook_forum;
		}
		Dsq.frames.reply_0.authenticateFacebook(session, forum_url);
	};

	var onLogin = function() {
		FB.Connect.getSignedPublicSessionData(handleSessionData);
	};

	this.login = function() {
		FB.Connect.requireSession(onLogin, true);
	};
};
Dsq.Facebook = new Dsq.Facebook();


	






Dsq.Themes = {};

Dsq.Themes.narcissus = new function() {
	this.addPostContainer = 'dsq-form-area';
	this.textareaContainer = 'dsq-textarea-wrapper';



	
	this.header = function() {
		var comments_count, total_posts, num_posts;
		var html = '';
		var missing_perm_tmpl;

		if (Dsq.jsonData.request.missing_perm) {
			missing_perm_tmpl = Dsq.Templates.missingPermissions();
			if (missing_perm_tmpl) {
				html += '<div class="dsq-missing-permissions">' + missing_perm_tmpl + '</div>';
			}
		}

		total_posts = Dsq.jsonData.thread.total_posts;
		num_posts = Dsq.jsonData.thread.num_posts;

		if (total_posts) {
			comments_count = Dsq.FmtStrings.SHOWING_COMMENTS_FULL(total_posts, num_posts);
		} else {
			comments_count = Dsq.FmtStrings.SHOWING_COMMENTS_WITHOUT_PAGINATION(num_posts);
		}

		html += ' \
		<div id="dsq-comments-title"> \
			<h3>' + comments_count + '</h3> \
		</div> \
		';

		html += ' \
		<div class="dsq-options"> \
			<span class="dsq-item-sort">'
				+ Dsq.Strings.SORT_BY + ' \
				<select id="dsq-sort-select" onchange="Dsq.Thread.sortBy(this.value);"> \
					<option value="hot" ' + (Dsq.jsonData.request.sort == 4 ? 'selected="selected"' : '') + '>' + Dsq.Strings.POPULAR_NOW + '</option> \
					<option value="best" ' + (Dsq.jsonData.request.sort == 3 ? 'selected="selected"' : '') + '>' + Dsq.Strings.BEST_RATING + '</option> \
					<option value="newest" ' + (Dsq.jsonData.request.sort == 2 ? 'selected="selected"' : '') + '>' + Dsq.Strings.NEWEST_FIRST + '</option> \
					<option value="oldest" ' + (Dsq.jsonData.request.sort == 1 ? 'selected="selected"' : '') + '>' + Dsq.Strings.OLDEST_FIRST + '</option> \
				</select> \
				&nbsp; \
			</span> \
			<span class="dsq-subscribe-email"> \
				<img src="http://media.disqus.com/images/embed/email.png" style="width:12px;height:12px;vertical-align:middle"> \
				<span id="dsq-subscribe">'
					+ (Dsq.jsonData.context.subscribed
						? '<a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Thread.subscribe(0); return false">' + Dsq.Strings.UNSUBSCRIBE + '</a>'
						: '<a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Thread.subscribe(1); return false">' + Dsq.Strings.SUBSCRIBE_BY_EMAIL + '</a>')
				+ '</span> \
			</span> \
			<span class="dsq-subscribe-rss" style="width:12px;height:12px;vertical-align:middle"> \
				<img src="http://media.disqus.com/images/embed/bullet-feed.png" alt="" /> \
				<a href="http://scobleizer.disqus.com/i_am_not_an_american/latest.rss">' + Dsq.Strings.SUBSCRIBE_BY_RSS + '</a> \
			</span> \
		</div> \
		';

		
		

		return html;

	};
	
	this.footer = function() {
		var html = '';

		html += Dsq.Templates.pagination();

		
		
			html += Dsq.Templates.realtime();
			html += Dsq.Templates.showThreadSettings();
			html += Dsq.Templates.postBox();

		html += Dsq.Templates.reactions();

		
			html += Dsq.Templates.trackbacks();
		


		if (Dsq.jsonData.request.is_global_moderator) {
 			html += ' \
				<div class="dsq-global-moderator-extras">'
					+ '<strong>shortname:</strong> ' + Dsq.jsonData.forum.url
					+ '<strong>thread id:</strong> ' + Dsq.jsonData.thread.id
					+ '<strong>thread slug:</strong> ' + Dsq.jsonData.thread.slug
				+ '</div> \
			';
		}

		return html;
	};
	
	this.realtime = function() {
		var html = '';
		
		if (Dsq.jsonData.realtime_enabled) {
			html += '<div id="dsq-realtime-options" class="dsq-options">'
					 + Dsq.Strings.REALTIME_UPDATING_IS + ' <strong id="dsq-realtime-status" style="text-transform: lowercase">' + Dsq.Strings.ENABLED + '</strong>. \
					 <a href="#" id="dsq-realtime-toggle" style="text-transform: capitalize"></a> \
					</div>';
		}

		if (!Dsq.jsonData.forum.streaming_realtime) {
			html += ' \
				<div style="display: none" id="dsq-realtime-alert" class="dsq-realtime-alert"><span id="dsq-realtime-queued"></span> <a href="#" id="dsq-realtime-show"></a></div> \
			';
		}
		
		return html;
	};

	this.showThreadSettings = function() {
		if (!Dsq.jsonData.request.is_moderator) {
			return '';
		}

		html = '<div id="dsq-thread-settings" class="dsq-thread-settings">' + Dsq.Strings.MODERATOR_OPTIONS;
		html += '<a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Thread.showSettings(); return false;">' + Dsq.Strings.SETTINGS + '</a>';
		html += '<a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Thread.showModeratorActions(); return false;">' + Dsq.Strings.MODERATE + '</a>';
		if (Dsq.jsonData.forum.reactions_enabled && Dsq.jsonData.reactions.length === 0) {
			html += '<a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Reaction.reportMissingReactions(); return false;">'
						+ Dsq.Strings.REPORT_MISSING_REACTIONS
						+ '</a>';
		}
		html +='</div>';

		return html;
	};

	this.postBox = function(post_id, use_fallback_iframe) {


		var html;
		var display_sharing_options = Dsq.jsonData.request.is_authenticated;

		if (!Dsq.jsonData.request.is_authenticated && Dsq.jsonData.forum.disqus_auth_disabled && !Dsq.jsonData.forum.allow_anon_post) {
			return '';
		}
		
		if (Dsq.jsonData.request.is_remote) {


			if (!Dsq.jsonData.request.sharing.hasOwnProperty(Dsq.jsonData.request.remote_domain)) {
				display_sharing_options = false;
			}
		}
		
		if (post_id) {
			var _meta = Dsq.jsonData.posts[post_id];
			var userData = Dsq.jsonData['users'][_meta.user_key];				
		}
		
		var pid = post_id ? '-' + post_id : '';

		var _requestUserInfo = function() {
			var html;



			var user_has_email = false;

			html = '<div class="dsq-request-user-info"> <!-- // If authenticated --> \
				<a href="' + Dsq.jsonData.settings.disqus_url + Dsq.Urls.LOGOUT + '?ctkn=' + Dsq.CSRF_TOKEN + '" class="dsq-request-user-logout">' + Dsq.Strings.LOGOUT + '</a> \
				<table> \
					<tr> \
						<td rowspan="2">'
							+ (!Dsq.jsonData.forum.disqus_auth_disabled ? '<a href="' + Dsq.jsonData.settings.disqus_url + Dsq.Urls.REQUEST_USER_PROFILE + '">' : '')
								+ '<img src="' + Dsq.Urls.REQUEST_USER_AVATAR + '" width="48" height="48" class="dsq-request-user-avatar">'
							+ (!Dsq.jsonData.forum.disqus_auth_disabled ? '</a>' : '')
						+ '</td> \
						<td class="dsq-request-user-name">'
								+ (Dsq.jsonData.request.is_remote
									 ? '<span class="dsq-badge-small dsq-badge-' + Dsq.jsonData.request.remote_domain + '">' + Dsq.jsonData.request.remote_domain + '</span>'
									 : (Dsq.jsonData.request.is_verified
											? '<span class="dsq-badge-small dsq-badge-verified">Verified</span>'
											: '<span class="dsq-badge-small dsq-badge-registered">Registered</span>'))
							+ (!Dsq.jsonData.forum.disqus_auth_disabled ? ' <a href="' + Dsq.jsonData.settings.disqus_url + Dsq.Urls.REQUEST_USER_PROFILE + '">' : '') 
								+ Dsq.jsonData.request.display_username 
							+ (!Dsq.jsonData.forum.disqus_auth_disabled ? '</a>' : '')
							+  (Dsq.jsonData.request.is_remote && user_has_email ? ' <small>(<a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Popup.remoteAccountSettings(); return false;">change settings</a>)</small>' : '')
							+  (!Dsq.jsonData.request.is_remote && !Dsq.jsonData.forum.disqus_auth_disabled ? ' <small>(<a href="' + Dsq.jsonData.settings.disqus_url + '/profile/info/" target="_blank">change name</a> or <a href="' + Dsq.jsonData.settings.disqus_url + '/profile/avatar/" target="_blank">picture</a>)</small>' : '')
						+ '</td> \
					</tr> \
					<tr> \
						<td class="dsq-request-user-stats"> \
							<span><big>' + Dsq.jsonData.request.comments_count + '</big> ' + (Dsq.jsonData.request.comments_count == 1 ? 'comment' : 'comments') + '</span> \
							<span><big>' + Dsq.jsonData.request.likes_count + '</big> ' + (Dsq.jsonData.request.likes_count == 1 ? 'like' : 'likes') + '</span> \
							<span><big>' + Dsq.jsonData.request.points + '</big> ' + (Dsq.jsonData.request.points == 1 ? 'point' : 'points') + '</span> \
						</td> \
					</tr> \
				</table> \
			</div> \
			';
			return html;
		};

		var _loginOptions = function() {
			var html;
			html = ' \
			<div class="dsq-authenticate"> \
				<p class="dsq-autheneticate-copy">'
				+ (Dsq.jsonData.forum.allow_anon_post
					? Dsq.Strings.YOU_ARE_COMMENTING_AS_A + ' <a class="dsq-help" title="Click for more information" href="#" onclick="Dsq.Popup.helpBadges(); return false">Guest</a>. ' + Dsq.Strings.OPTIONAL + ': ' + Dsq.Strings.LOGIN_BELOW + '.'
					: Dsq.Strings.REQUIRED + ': ' + Dsq.Strings.PLEASE_LOGIN_BELOW_TO_COMMENT + '.')
				+ '</p> \
				<ul class="dsq-login-buttons">'
					+ (!Dsq.jsonData.forum.disqus_auth_disabled ? '<li class="dsq-login-button"><a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Popup.login(); return false"><img src="http://media.disqus.com/images/themes/narcissus/login-disqus.gif" /></a></li>' : '')
					+ (Dsq.jsonData.context.use_fb_connect ? '<li class="dsq-login-button"><a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Facebook.login(); return false;"><img src="http://media.disqus.com/images/themes/narcissus/login-facebook.gif" /></a></li>' : '')
					+ (Dsq.jsonData.context.use_twitter_signin ? '<li class="dsq-login-button"><a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Twitter.startTwitterConnect(); return false"><img src="http://media.disqus.com/images/themes/narcissus/login-twitter.gif" /></a></li>' : '')
					+ (Dsq.jsonData.context.use_openid ? '<li class="dsq-login-button"><a href="#" onclick="Dsq.OpenID.requestURL(); return false" ><img src="http://media.disqus.com/images/themes/narcissus/login-openid.gif" /></a></li>' : '')
					+ (Dsq.jsonData.context.use_yahoo ? '<li class="dsq-login-button"><a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Yahoo.startYahooConnect(); return false"><img src="http://media.disqus.com/images/themes/narcissus/login-yahoo.gif" /></a></li>' : '')
				+ '</ul> \
			</div> \
			';
			return html;
		};

		if (!Dsq.jsonData.context.show_reply) {


			if (!Dsq.jsonData.request.is_authenticated) {



				return '<div id="dsq-form-area" style="display:none"><div id="dsq-textarea-wrapper"></div></div>' + _loginOptions();
			} else {
				return '';
			}
		}

		html = ' \
		<div id="' + (post_id 
			? 'dsq-reply-post-' + post_id
			: 'dsq-new-post')
		 	+ '" class="dsq-post-area"> \
			<div class="dsq-dc-logo"> \
				<a href="http://disqus.com/comments" target="_blank"><img src="http://media.disqus.com/images/themes/narcissus/disqus-logo.png"></a> \
			</div>'
			+ (post_id 
				? '<h3>' + Dsq.Strings.REPLYING_TO + ' ' + userData.display_name + '</h3>'
				: '<h3>' + Dsq.Strings.ADD_NEW_COMMENT + '</h3>')
			+ (Dsq.jsonData.request.is_authenticated 
				? _requestUserInfo()
				: _loginOptions() )
			+ '<div id="dsq-form-area' + pid + '">'
			+ '<div class="dsq-textarea"> \
				<div class="dsq-textarea-wrapper" id="dsq-textarea-wrapper' + pid + '"></div> \
			</div>'
			+ (!Dsq.jsonData.request.is_authenticated
			? ' \
			<div class="dsq-post-fields"> \
				<table> \
					<tr> \
						<td class="dsq-post-fields-left"><div class="dsq-input-wrapper"><input id="dsq-field-name' + pid + '" type="text" value="' + (disqus_def_name ? disqus_def_name : (Dsq.jsonData.session.name ? Dsq.jsonData.session.name : Dsq.Strings.NAME + '" class="dsq-placeholder')) + '" onfocus="Dsq.Templates.handlePlaceholder(event, this, \'name\')" onblur="Dsq.Templates.handlePlaceholder(event, this, \'name\')" /></div></td> \
						<td class="dsq-post-fields-right"><div class="dsq-input-wrapper"><input id="dsq-field-website' + pid + '" type="text" value="' + (Dsq.jsonData.session.url ? Dsq.jsonData.session.url : Dsq.Strings.WEBSITE + ' (' + Dsq.Strings.OPTIONAL.toLowerCase() + ')" class="dsq-placeholder') + '" onfocus="Dsq.Templates.handlePlaceholder(event, this, \'website\')" onblur="Dsq.Templates.handlePlaceholder(event, this, \'website\')" /></div></td> \
					</tr> \
					<tr> \
						<td class="dsq-post-fields-left"><div class="dsq-input-wrapper"><input id="dsq-field-email' + pid + '" type="text" value="' + (disqus_def_email ? disqus_def_email : (Dsq.jsonData.session.email ? Dsq.jsonData.session.email : Dsq.Strings.EMAIL + '" class="dsq-placeholder')) + '" onfocus="Dsq.Templates.handlePlaceholder(event, this, \'email\')" onblur="Dsq.Templates.handlePlaceholder(event, this, \'email\')" /></div></td> \
						<td class="dsq-post-fields-right"> \
							<div class="dsq-subscribe"> \
								<a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Templates.chooseSubscribe(' + post_id + '); return false" class="dsq-subscribe-menu"><span id="dsq-subscribe-select' + pid + '">' + (Dsq.jsonData.request.subscribe_on_post ? Dsq.Strings.SUBSCRIBE_TO_ALL_COMMENTS_BY_EMAIL : Dsq.Strings.DO_NOT_SUBSCRIBE_TO_COMMENTS) + '</span> <small>&#9660;</small></a> \
								<ul class="dsq-panel" id="dsq-subscribe-menu' + pid + '"> \
									<li><a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Templates.setSubscribe(2, this, ' + post_id + '); return false">' + Dsq.Strings.SUBSCRIBE_TO_ALL_COMMENTS_BY_EMAIL + '</a></li> \
									<li><a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Templates.setSubscribe(0, this, ' + post_id + '); return false">' + Dsq.Strings.DO_NOT_SUBSCRIBE_TO_COMMENTS + '</a></li> \
								</ul> \
								<input id="dsq-subscribe-on-post' + pid + '" type="hidden" value="' + Dsq.jsonData.request.subscribe_on_post + '" /> \
							</div> \
						</td> \
					</tr> \
				</table> \
			</div>'
			: '')
			+ '<div class="dsq-post-footer"> \
				<div class="dsq-sharing-options" ' + (!display_sharing_options ? 'style="display:none;"' : '') + '> \
					<button type="button" class="dsq-button-small" onfocus="document.getElementById(\'dsq-post-button' + pid + '\').focus();"><span>' + Dsq.Strings.SHARING_OPTIONS + ' <small>&#9660;</small></span></button> \
					<div class="dsq-panel"> '
						+ (Dsq.jsonData.request.sharing.twitter !== undefined
								&& Dsq.jsonData.request.sharing.twitter.enabled === true
							? '<div><input type="checkbox" id="dsq-sharing-twitter' + pid + '"'
								  + (Dsq.jsonData.request.sharing.twitter.auto === true ? 'checked=true' : '') + '/> \
									<label for="dsq-sharing-twitter' + pid + '">' + Dsq.Strings.SHARE_ON + ' Twitter</label> \
								 </div>'
							: '')
						+ (Dsq.jsonData.request.sharing.facebook
								&& (Dsq.jsonData.request.sharing.facebook.enabled === true ||
										(Dsq.jsonData.request.is_remote && Dsq.jsonData.request.remote_domain == 'facebook'))
							? '<div><input type="checkbox" id="dsq-sharing-facebook' + pid + '"'
									+ (Dsq.jsonData.request.sharing.facebook.auto === true ? 'checked=true' : '') + '/> \
									<label for="dsq-sharing-facebook' + pid + '">' + Dsq.Strings.SHARE_ON + ' Facebook</label> \
								 </div>'
							: '')
						+ (Dsq.jsonData.request.sharing.yahoo !== undefined
								&& Dsq.jsonData.request.sharing.yahoo.enabled === true
							? '<div><input type="checkbox" id="dsq-sharing-yahoo' + pid + '"'
									+ (Dsq.jsonData.request.sharing.yahoo.auto === true ? 'checked=true' : '') + '/> \
									<label for="dsq-sharing-yahoo' + pid + '">' + Dsq.Strings.SHARE_ON + ' Yahoo!</label> \
								</div>'
							: '')
						+ (Dsq.jsonData.request.sharing.tumblr !== undefined
								&& Dsq.jsonData.request.sharing.tumblr.enabled === true
							? '<div><input type="checkbox" id="dsq-sharing-tumblr' + pid + '"'
									+ (Dsq.jsonData.request.sharing.tumblr.auto === true ? 'checked=true' : '') + '/> \
									<label for="dsq-sharing-tumblr' + pid + '">' + Dsq.Strings.SHARE_ON + ' Tumblr</label> \
								 </div>'
							: '')
						+ (Dsq.jsonData.request.sharing.wordpress !== undefined
								&& Dsq.jsonData.request.sharing.wordpress.enabled === true
							? '<div><input type="checkbox" id="dsq-sharing-wordpress' + pid + '"'
									+ (Dsq.jsonData.request.sharing.wordpress.auto === true ? 'checked=true' : '') + '/> \
									<label for="dsq-sharing-wordpress' + pid + '">' + Dsq.Strings.SHARE_ON + ' Wordpress</label> \
								 </div>'
							: '')
						+ (Dsq.jsonData.request.sharing.movabletype !== undefined
							  && Dsq.jsonData.request.sharing.movabletype.enabled === true
							? '<div><input type="checkbox" id="dsq-sharing-movabletype' + pid + '"'
									+ (Dsq.jsonData.request.sharing.movabletype.auto === true ? 'checked=true' : '') + '/> \
									<label for="dsq-sharing-movabletype' + pid + '">' + Dsq.Strings.SHARE_ON + ' Movable Type</label> \
							   </div>'
							: '')
						+ (Dsq.jsonData.request.sharing.typepad !== undefined
							  && Dsq.jsonData.request.sharing.typepad.enabled === true
							? '<div><input type="checkbox" id="dsq-sharing-typepad' + pid + '"'
									+ (Dsq.jsonData.request.sharing.typepad.auto === true ? 'checked=true' : '') + '/> \
								  <label for="dsq-sharing-typepad' + pid + '">' + Dsq.Strings.SHARE_ON + ' TypePad</label> \
							   </div>'
							: '')
						+ '<div><a href="' + Dsq.jsonData.settings.disqus_url + '/profile/connections/" target="_blank" class="dsq-configure-options">' + Dsq.Strings.CONFIGURE_OPTIONS + '</a></div>'
					+ '</div> \
				</div>'
				+ '<button type="button" class="dsq-button" id="dsq-post-button' + pid + '" onclick="Dsq.Templates.postComment(' + post_id + ', this, false)"><span>' + Dsq.Strings.POST_AS + ' '
				+ (Dsq.jsonData.request.display_username
					? Dsq.jsonData.request.display_username
					: Dsq.Strings.GUEST)
				+ '</span></button>'
				+ (post_id
					? '<button type="button" class="dsq-button" id="dsq-cancel-button' + pid + '" onclick="Dsq.Post.toggleReply(' + post_id +', this)"><span>' + Dsq.Strings.CANCEL + '</span></button>'
					: '')
			+ '</div>'
			+ '</div>' // end dsq-form-area
		+ '</div> \
		';
		
		return html;
	};




	this.appendPost = function(post_id) {
		var html = '<div id="dsq-append-post-' + post_id + '"></div>';
		return html;
	};

	this.postPrependHeader = function(post_id) {
		var html;
		var _meta = Dsq.jsonData.posts[post_id];
		var userData = Dsq.jsonData['users'][_meta.user_key];
		
		html = ' \
		<table> \
			<tr> \
				<td id="dsq-header-avatar-' + post_id + '" class="dsq-header-avatar" onmouseover="Dsq.Post.dropProfile(' + post_id + ')"> \
					<a id="dsq-avatar-' + post_id + '" class="dsq-avatar" href="' + userData.url + '" onclick="Dsq.Popup.popProfile(' + post_id + '); return false;">'
					+ (Dsq.jsonData.forum.show_avatar
					? '<img src="' + Dsq.jsonData.users[_meta.user_key].avatar + '" alt="" />'
					: '')
				+ '</a> \
				</td> \
				<td class="dsq-comment-header-meta"> \
		';

		
		return html;
	};
	
	this.postAppendHeader = function(post_id) {
		var _meta = Dsq.jsonData.posts[post_id];
		var html;
		var parent_display_name = '';
		
		if(_meta.parent_post_id) {

			var _parent_meta = Dsq.jsonData.posts[_meta.parent_post_id];

			if (_parent_meta) {
				var parentUserData = Dsq.jsonData['users'][_parent_meta.user_key];
				parent_display_name = parentUserData.display_name;
			}
		}

		html = ' \
		<img src="http://media.disqus.com/images/themes/narcissus/moderator.png" class="dsq-moderator-star" title="Moderator" /> \
		<span class="dsq-comment-header-time"><a href="#comment-' + post_id + '" onclick="Dsq.Popup.permalink(' + post_id + ')" title="Permalink">' + (_meta.is_realtime ? Dsq.Strings.JUST_NOW : _meta.date) + '</a></span> '
		+ (_meta.parent_post_id && parent_display_name
			? '<a href="#comment-' + _meta.parent_post_id + '" title="Jump to comment">in reply to ' + parent_display_name + '</a>'
			: '')
		+ '</td> \
		<td id="dsq-like-pts-' + post_id + '" class="dsq-comment-header-likes">'
		+ (_meta.points
			? _meta.points + Dsq.Utils.pluralize(_meta.points, ' person', ' people') + ' liked this.'
			: '')
		+ '</td> \
		</tr> \
		</table> \
		';
		return html;
	};

	this.preBody = function(post_id) {
		var html = '';
		return html;
	};

	this.postFooter = function(post_id) {
		var html;
		var _meta = Dsq.jsonData.posts[post_id];
		if(_meta.killed || !_meta.approved) { return ''; }
		
		html = ' \
		<div class="dsq-comment-footer" id="dsq-comment-footer-' + post_id + '"> \
			<div class="dsq-comment-footer-left">'
				+ (Dsq.jsonData.request.is_moderator || Dsq.jsonData.request.is_global_moderator
					? '<a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Templates.moderateOptions(' + post_id+ '); return false">' + Dsq.Strings.MODERATE + '</a>'
					: '')
				+ '<a href="#" id="dsq-post-report-' + post_id + '" class="dsq-post-report" onclick="Dsq.Post.report(' + post_id + ', false); return false;">' + Dsq.Strings.FLAG + '</a> \
			</div> \
			<div class="dsq-comment-footer-right">'
				+ (_meta.votable 
					? '<span id="dsq-like-' + post_id + '" class="dsq-like">'
					+ (!_meta.up_voted
						? '<button type="button" class="dsq-button-small" onclick="Dsq.Post.rate(this, ' + post_id + ', 1)" >Like</button>'
						: 'You liked this.&nbsp;&nbsp;')
					+ '</span>'
					: '')
				+ (_meta.can_reply && !_meta.has_replies && _meta.from_request_user
					? '<button type="button" class="dsq-button-small dsq-post-edit" onclick="Dsq.Post.edit(this, ' + post_id + ')" >' + Dsq.Strings.EDIT + '</button>'
					: '')
				+ (_meta.can_reply
					? '<span class="dsq-comment-footer-reply" id="dsq-comment-footer-reply-' + post_id + '" onclick="Dsq.Post.toggleReply(' + post_id +', this)"> \
						<button type="button" class="dsq-button-small">' + Dsq.Strings.REPLY + '</button> \
						<button type="button" class="dsq-comment-footer-reply-tab">' + Dsq.Strings.REPLY + '</button><span></span> \
					</span>'
					: '')
			+ '</div> \
		</div> \
		';
		
		return html;
	};



	
	this.showRetweets = function(id, limit, element_id /* Optional */) {
		var source, html = '';

		for (var i = 0, reaction; reaction = Dsq.jsonData.reactions[i]; i++) {
			if (reaction.id === id) {
				source = reaction.retweets;
			}
		}

		if (source) {
			if (limit === 0) {
				limit = source.length;
			}

			for (var j = 0; j < limit; j++) {
				var rt = source[j];
				html += '<a href="' + rt.url + '">' + rt.author_name + '</a>'	+ ((j === (limit - 1)) ? '.' : ', ');
			}
		}

		if (element_id === undefined) {
			return html;
		}

		var element = document.getElementById(element_id);
		element.innerHTML = html;
		return element;
	};

	this.showMoreReactions = function(reactions, has_more, start, limit) {
		var link = document.getElementById('dsq-show-more-reactions');
		var container = link.parentNode;
		container.removeChild(link);

		for (var i = 0, reaction; reaction = reactions[i]; i++) {
			var el = Dsq.Templates.generateReactionHTML(reaction);
			if (el) {
				container.innerHTML += el;
			}
		}

		if (has_more) {
			var d = Dsq.jsonData.settings.disqus_url;
			var f = Dsq.jsonData.forum.url;
			var t = Dsq.jsonData.thread.id;
			var s = start;
			var l = limit;

			var handler = 'Dsq.Utils.execScript(\'' + d + '/forums/' + f + '/more_reactions.js?t=' + t + '&s=' + s + '&l=' + l + '\', true); return false;';
			container.innerHTML += '<li id="dsq-show-more-reactions" class="dsq-show-more-reactions"><button type="button" class="dsq-button-small" onclick="' + handler + '">Show more reactions</button></li>';
		}
	};

	this.generateReactionHTML = function(reaction) {
		if (reaction.body === null || reaction.body == '') {
			return;
		}

		if (reaction.author_name === '') {
			reaction.author_name = '&nbsp;';
		}

		if (reaction.url === '') {
			reaction.url = reaction.get_service_url;
		}

		var item = '<li class="dsq-comment dsq-reaction" id="dsq-reaction-' + reaction.id + '">'
			+ '<div class="dsq-comment-header"> \
			<table> \
			<tr> \
			<td class="dsq-header-avatar"> \
			';

		if (reaction.author_url && reaction.author_url !== '') {
			item += '<a target="_blank" href="' + reaction.author_url +'" class="dsq-avatar">';
		}

		if (reaction.avatar_url && reaction.avatar_url !== '') {
			item += '<img src="' + reaction.avatar_url + '"/>';
		} else {

			item += '<img src="' + Dsq.jsonData.media_url + '/images/noavatar92.png"/>';
		}

		var service_icon = (reaction.get_service_name == 'trackback' || reaction.get_service_name == 'pingback' ? 'rss' : reaction.get_service_name.replace(' ', ''));
		item += (reaction.author_url && reaction.author_url !== ''
				? '</a>'
				: '')
			+ '</td>'
			+ '<td><cite class="dsq-comment-cite">' + reaction.author_name + '</cite> <span class="dsq-comment-header-time">' + reaction.date_created + '</span></td>'
			+ '<td class="dsq-comment-header-likes"></td>'
			+ '</tr></table></div>' // end dsq-comment-header
			+ '<div class="dsq-reaction-header" \
				<table> \
					<tr> \
						<td class="dsq-reaction-header-left">'
							+ '<img class="dsq-service-icon" src="' + Dsq.jsonData.media_url + '/images/reactions/services/' + service_icon + '.png" />'
							+ ' From <a class="dsq-service-name" target="_blank" href="' + reaction.url + '">' + reaction.get_service_name + '</a> '
							+ 'via <a href="' + reaction.source_url + '">' + (reaction.source == 'backtype' ? 'BackType' : 'UberVU') + '</a>'
						+ '</td>'
						+ '<td class="dsq-reaction-header-right">';

			if(reaction.retweets) {
				var num_retweets = reaction.retweets.length;
				if (num_retweets > 0) {
					if (num_retweets == 1) {
						item += 'One more retweet from <a href="' + reaction.retweets[0].url + '">'  + reaction.retweets[0].author_name + '</a>';
					} else {
						item += (num_retweets + ' more retweets from ');
						item += '<span id="dsq-reaction-retweets-' + reaction.id + '">';
						var n_tweets = (num_retweets > 3) ? 3 : num_retweets;
						item += Dsq.Templates.showRetweets(reaction.id, n_tweets);
						if (n_tweets != num_retweets) {
							item += '</span> <a onclick="Dsq.Templates.showRetweets(' + reaction.id + ', 0, \'dsq-reaction-retweets-' + reaction.id + '\');'
								+ 'this.parentNode.removeChild(this); return false;" href="#">Show all</a>';
						}
					}
				}
			}	
			item += '</td></tr> \
			</table> \
			</div>' // end dsq-reaction-header
			+ '<div class="dsq-comment-body"> \
				<div class="dsq-comment-message">' + reaction.body + '</div>'
			+ '</div> \
			<div class="dsq-comment-footer"> \
				<div class="dsq-comment-footer-left"> \
				</div>'
				+ (Dsq.jsonData.request.is_moderator || Dsq.jsonData.request.is_global_moderator 
					? ' \
					<div class="dsq-comment-footer-right"> \
						<button type="button" class="dsq-button-small dsq-hide-reaction" onclick="Dsq.Reaction.hide(' + reaction.id + ')">Hide</button> \
					</div>'
					: '')
			+ '</div>'
		item += '</li>'; /* Reaction HTML ends */
		return item;
	};

	this.reactions = function() {
		var html, reaction;

		if (Dsq.jsonData.reactions === undefined || Dsq.jsonData.reactions.length === 0) {
			return '';
		}

		html = '';
		for (var i = 0; reaction = Dsq.jsonData.reactions[i]; i++) {
			var item = Dsq.Templates.generateReactionHTML(reaction);
			if (item) {
				html += item;
			}
		}

		if (Dsq.jsonData.has_more_reactions) {
			var d = Dsq.jsonData.settings.disqus_url;
			var f = Dsq.jsonData.forum.url;
			var t = Dsq.jsonData.thread.id;
			var s = Dsq.jsonData.reactions_start;
			var l = Dsq.jsonData.reactions_limit;

			var handler = 'Dsq.Utils.execScript(\'' + d + '/forums/' + f + '/more_reactions.js?t=' + t + '&s=' + s + '&l=' + l + '\', true); return false;';
			html += '<li id="dsq-show-more-reactions" class="dsq-show-more-reactions"><button type="button" class="dsq-button-small" onclick="' + handler + '">Show more reactions</button></li>';
		}

		return '<h3 id="dsq-reactions-title" class="dsq-h3-reactions">Reactions</h3><ul id="dsq-reactions" class="dsq-reactions">' + html + '</ul>';
	};
	
	this._popupGeneric = function(content) {
		return ' \
		<div class="dsq-popup-container"> \
			<table> \
				<tbody> \
					<tr> \
						<td class="dsq-popup-tl"></td><td class="dsq-popup-b"></td><td class="dsq-popup-tr"></td> \
					</tr> \
					<tr> \
						<td class="dsq-popup-b"></td> \
						<td class="dsq-popup-body"> \
							<div class="dsq-popup-content"> \
								<div class="dsq-popup-title"> \
									<button type="button" class="dsq-button-small" style="float:right" onclick="Dsq.Popup._closePopup(null, true)">Close</button>'
									+ content['header'] 
								+ '</div>'
								+ content['body']
							+ '</div> \
							<div class="powered-by"><a href="http://disqus.com/comments/">Powered by <img src="http://media.disqus.com/images/embed/disqus-logo.png" alt="Disqus Comments" style="margin-bottom:-5px" /></a></div> \
						</td> \
						<td class="dsq-popup-b"></td> \
					</tr> \
					<tr> \
						<td class="dsq-popup-bl"></td><td class="dsq-popup-b"></td><td class="dsq-popup-br"></td> \
					</tr> \
				</tbody> \
			</table> \
		</div> \
		';
	};



	
	this.chooseSubscribe = function(post_id) {

		var pid = post_id ? '-' + post_id : '';
		var menu = Dsq.$('dsq-subscribe-menu' + pid);
		
		menu.style.display = menu.style.display == 'block' ? 'none' : 'block';
		
	};
	
	this.setSubscribe = function(value, el, post_id) {

		var pid = post_id ? '-' + post_id : '';
		var input = Dsq.$('dsq-subscribe-on-post' + pid);
		var select = Dsq.$('dsq-subscribe-select' + pid);
		var menu = Dsq.$('dsq-subscribe-menu' + pid);
		
		select.innerHTML = el.innerHTML;
		input.value = value;
		this.chooseSubscribe(post_id);
	};
	
	this.getFormFields = function(post_id) {

		var fields = {};
		var pid = post_id ? '-' + post_id : '';
		var name = Dsq.$('dsq-field-name' + pid);
		var email = Dsq.$('dsq-field-email' + pid);
		var website = Dsq.$('dsq-field-website' + pid);
		var username = Dsq.$('dsq-field-username' + pid);
		var password = Dsq.$('dsq-field-password' + pid);

		fields = {
			'name': name,
			'email': email,
			'website': website,
			'username': username,
			'password': password
		}
		
		return fields;
	}
	
	this.validateFields = function(post_id) {
		
		if(Dsq.jsonData.request.is_authenticated) { return true; }
		
		var fields = Dsq.Templates.getFormFields(post_id);
		
		var nameField = fields.name;
		var websiteField = fields.website;
		var emailField = fields.email;
		
		websiteField.value = (websiteField.value == Dsq.Templates.placeholder['website']) ? '' : websiteField.value;
		
		var v = [{

			validator: Dsq.Validators.name,
			value: nameField.value
		}, {

			validator: Dsq.Validators.email,
			value: emailField.value
		}, {

			validator: Dsq.Validators.url,
			value: websiteField.value
		}];
		
		return Dsq.Validators.validate(v, function(e) { Dsq.Popup.popModal(e, 'Oops...') } );
	};
	
	this.checkExistingUser = function(post_id) {
		var fields = Dsq.Templates.getFormFields(post_id);		
		Dsq.Popup.loading(post_id);
		
		if (post_id) {
			Dsq.frames['reply_' + post_id].getUserByEmail(fields.email.value);
		} else {
			Dsq.frames['reply_0'].getUserByEmail(fields.email.value);
		}
	};

	this.validateAuth = function(el_clicked, post_id, auth_choice) {
		var fields = Dsq.Templates.getFormFields(post_id);
		var email = fields.email ? fields.email.value : '';
		var username = fields.username ? fields.username.value : '';
		var password = fields.password ? fields.password.value : '';
		
		Dsq.Templates.setLoadingButton(el_clicked, post_id);
		
		if (post_id) {
			Dsq.frames['reply_' + post_id].validateAuth(auth_choice, email, username, password);
		} else {
			Dsq.frames['reply_0'].validateAuth(auth_choice, email, username, password);
		}
	};

	this.lightboxUpdateEmail = function(post_id, new_email) {
		var fields = Dsq.Templates.getFormFields(post_id);
		fields.email.value = new_email;
	};

	this.lightboxAuthenticate = function(post_id, auth_choice, auth_data) {
		var title, body;
		var pid = post_id ? '-' + post_id : '';

		if(typeof(auth_data) == 'undefined') {
			var auth_data = Dsq.Templates.getFormFields(post_id);
		}

		d = auth_data;

		switch(auth_choice) {
			case 'register':
				var suggestedUsername = d.name.value.replace(/[^a-zA-Z0-9-]/g,'').toLowerCase();
			
				title = Dsq.jsonData.forum.allow_anon_post ? 'Optional:' : 'Required:';
				title += ' Register a <img src="http://media.disqus.com/images/embed/disqus-profile.png" alt=Disqus Profile" />';

				body = ' \
				<ul class="dsq-lightbox-register-reasons"> \
				<li>Verify your comments</li> \
				<li>Edit and delete comments</li> \
				<li>Manage comments and replies</li> \
				</ul> \
				';

				body += ' \
				<div class="dsq-lightbox-auth-fields"> \
					<table> \
						<tr> \
							<td>Email</td> \
							<td><input type="text" value="' + d.email.value + '" onchange="Dsq.Templates.lightboxUpdateEmail(' + post_id + ', this.value)" /><div id="dsq-email-errors' + pid + '"></div></td> \
						</tr> \
						<tr> \
							<td>Username</td> \
							<td><input id="dsq-field-username' + pid + '" type="text" value="' + suggestedUsername + '"/><div id="dsq-username-errors' + pid + '"></div></td> \
						</tr> \
						<tr> \
							<td>Password</td> \
							<td><input id="dsq-field-password' + pid + '" type="password" /><div id="dsq-password-errors' + pid + '"></div></td> \
						</tr> \
					</table> \
					<div class="dsq-lightbox-switch-auth"><a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Templates.lightboxAuthenticate(' + post_id + ',\'login\'); return false">Login instead</a></div> \
				</div> \
				<div id="dsq-lightbox-errors' + pid + '" class="dsq-lightbox-errors"></div> \
				<div class="dsq-lightbox-submit"> \
					<div class="dsq-lightbox-auth-post"><button type="button" class="dsq-button" onclick="Dsq.Templates.validateAuth(this, ' + post_id + ',\'' + auth_choice + '\')">Register and Post comment</button></div>'
					+ (Dsq.jsonData.forum.allow_anon_post
						? '<div class="dsq-lightbox-auth-skip"><button type="button" class="dsq-button-small" onclick="Dsq.Templates.postComment(' + post_id + ', this, true)">Just post as a Guest</button></div>'
						: '')
				+ '</div> \
				';
				break;
			case 'login':
				title = Dsq.jsonData.forum.allow_anon_post ? 'Optional:' : 'Required:';
				title += ' Login to your <img src="http://media.disqus.com/images/embed/disqus-profile.png" alt=Disqus Profile" />';
				body = '';
				
				if(d.avatar_url) {
					body += '<div class="dsq-lightbox-recognized"><table><tr>';
					body += '<td><img src="' + d.avatar_url + '" alt="" /></td>';
					body += '<td><span class="dsq-badge ' + (d.verified ? 'dsq-badge-verified' : 'dsq-badge-registered') + '">' + (d.verified ? 'Verified' : 'Registered') + '</span></td>';
					body += '<td>Hey <strong>' + d.display_name + '</strong>, is that you? Login below to claim this comment.';
					body += '</tr></table></div>';
				}

				body += ' \
				<div class="dsq-lightbox-auth-fields"> \
					<table> \
						<tr> \
							<td>Username or Email</td> \
							<td><input id="dsq-field-username' + pid + '" type="text" value="' + (d.avatar_url ? d.username : '') + '" /></td> \
						</tr> \
						<tr> \
							<td>Password <a href="http://disqus.com/forgot" target="_blank">(cannot log in?)</a></td> \
							<td><input id="dsq-field-password' + pid + '" type="password" /></td> \
						</tr> \
					</table> \
					<div class="dsq-lightbox-switch-auth"><a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Templates.lightboxAuthenticate(' + post_id + ',\'register\'); return false">Register instead</a></div> \
				</div> \
				<div id="dsq-lightbox-errors' + pid + '" class="dsq-lightbox-errors"></div> \
				<div class="dsq-lightbox-submit"> \
					<div class="dsq-lightbox-auth-post"><button type="button" class="dsq-button" onclick="Dsq.Templates.validateAuth(this, ' + post_id + ',\'' + auth_choice + '\')">Login and Post comment</button></div>'
					+ (Dsq.jsonData.forum.allow_anon_post
						? '<div class="dsq-lightbox-auth-skip"><button type="button" class="dsq-button-small" onclick="Dsq.Templates.postComment(' + post_id + ', this, true)">Just post as a Guest</button></div>'
						: '')
				+ '</div> \
				';
				break;
			default:
				break;
		}
		Dsq.Popup.lightbox(body, title, post_id);
		Dsq.$('dsq-field-username' + pid).focus();
	};
	
	this.buttonsToRestore = [];
	this.setLoadingButton = function(btn, post_id) {
		var pid = post_id ? '-' + post_id : '';
		if (btn) {

			var loadingBtn = document.createElement('button');
			loadingBtn.id = btn.id + '-loading';
			loadingBtn.innerHTML = '<img src="http://media.disqus.com/images/loading-lite.gif" alt="" /> ' + Dsq.Strings.JUST_A_MOMENT;
			loadingBtn.className = btn.className + ' dsq-post-loading';
			btn.parentNode.appendChild(loadingBtn);
			btn.style.display = 'none';
			var cancelBtn = Dsq.$('dsq-cancel-button' + pid);
			if(cancelBtn) { cancelBtn.style.display = 'none'; this.buttonsToRestore.push(cancelBtn); }
			this.buttonsToRestore.push(btn);
		} else {

			var buttons = this.buttonsToRestore;
			for(var i = 0; i < buttons.length; i++) {
				buttons[i].style.display = 'inline';
				Dsq.Utils.deleteNode(Dsq.$(buttons[i].id + '-loading'));
			}
		}
		
	};

	this.postComment = function(post_id, el_clicked, force, auth_choice) {
		var append_id = post_id ? '-' + post_id : '';
		var fields = Dsq.Templates.getFormFields(post_id);

		if (Dsq.Templates.validateFields(post_id)) {

			if (!Dsq.jsonData.request.is_authenticated && !force &&
				((!Dsq.Utils.readCookie('skipped_auth') && !disqus_skip_auth && !Dsq.jsonData.forum.disqus_auth_disabled) || !Dsq.jsonData.forum.allow_anon_post)) {
				Dsq.Templates.checkExistingUser(post_id);
				return false;
			}
			var params = [];
			if (!Dsq.jsonData.request.is_authenticated) {
				params.push(fields.name.value,
					fields.email.value,
					fields.website.value);

				if (auth_choice == 'login' || auth_choice == 'register') {
					params.push({
						auth_choice: auth_choice,
						username: fields.username.value,
						password: fields.password.value,
						email: fields.email.value
					});
				} else {
					params.push(null);
				}

				params.push(null /* sharing options */, Dsq.$('dsq-subscribe-on-post' + append_id).value);
			} else {
				var service_checked = function(name) {
					var el = Dsq.$('dsq-sharing-' + name + append_id);
					return (el !== null && el.checked === true) ? '1' : '0';
				};
				params.push(null, null, null, null, {
					tw: service_checked('twitter'),
					fb: service_checked('facebook'),
					tr: service_checked('tumblr'),
					wp: service_checked('wordpress'),
					mt: service_checked('movabletype'),
					tp: service_checked('typepad'),
					yh: service_checked('yahoo')
				});
			}

			var frame = Dsq.frames['reply_' + (post_id ? post_id : 0)];
			frame.post.apply(frame, params);

			if (el_clicked) {
				Dsq.Templates.setLoadingButton(el_clicked, post_id);
			}
			
			if (force) {
				Dsq.Utils.createCookie('skipped_auth', true);	
			}
			
		} else {
			return false;
		}
	};

	this.editComment = function(el_clicked, post_id) {
		var edited_message = Dsq.$('dsq-edit-textarea-' + post_id).value;

		Dsq.Templates.setLoadingButton(el_clicked, post_id);
		Dsq.frames['edit_' + post_id].edit(post_id, edited_message);
	};

	this.toggleEdit = function(post_id) {
		var body = Dsq.$('dsq-comment-body-' + post_id);
		var message = Dsq.$('dsq-comment-message-' + post_id);

		if (!Dsq.Post.stateEditToggled[post_id]) {


			message.style.display = 'none';
			if (Dsq.$('dsq-edit-' + post_id)) {
				Dsq.$('dsq-edit-' + post_id).style.display = 'block';
			} else {

				var edit_area = document.createElement('div');
				edit_area.id = 'dsq-edit-' + post_id;
				edit_area.className = 'dsq-edit dsq-textarea';
				edit_area.innerHTML = ' \
				<div class="dsq-textarea-wrapper"> \
					<textarea class="dsq-edit-textarea" id="dsq-edit-textarea-' + post_id + '">' + message.innerHTML + '</textarea> \
				</div> \
				<div class="dsq-save-edit"> \
					<button type="button" onclick="Dsq.Templates.editComment(this, ' + post_id + ')" class="dsq-button-small">Save Edit</button> \
				</div> \
				<div id="dsq-edit-iframe-' + post_id + '" style="display: none"></div> \
				';

				body.appendChild(edit_area);

				if (!Dsq.frames['edit_' + post_id]) {
					var _meta = Dsq.jsonData.posts[post_id];
					Dsq.frames['edit_' + post_id] = new Dsq.ReplyFrame(Dsq.$('dsq-edit-iframe-' + post_id), post_id);
					Dsq.frames['edit_' + post_id].init();
					Dsq.frames['edit_' + post_id].setState(post_id, _meta.depth);
				}
			}
		} else {

			message.style.display = 'block';
			Dsq.$('dsq-edit-' + post_id).style.display = 'none';
		}
		
		Dsq.Post.stateEditToggled[post_id] = !Dsq.Post.stateEditToggled[post_id];
	};
	
	this.edit = function(el, post_id) {

		Dsq.Templates.toggleEdit(post_id);
	};

	this.toggleReply = function(post_id, button) {
		
		if(!this.stateReplyToggled[post_id]) {

			if (Dsq.$('dsq-reply-post-' + post_id)) {
				Dsq.$('dsq-append-post-' + post_id).style.display = 'block';
			} else {
				Dsq.$('dsq-append-post-' + post_id).innerHTML = Dsq.Templates.postBox(post_id);
				var container = Dsq.$('dsq-textarea-wrapper-' + post_id);
				if (!Dsq.frames['reply_' + post_id] && container) {
					var _meta = Dsq.jsonData.posts[post_id];
					Dsq.frames['reply_' + post_id] = new Dsq.ReplyFrame(container, post_id);
					Dsq.frames['reply_' + post_id].init(function() {

						Dsq.$('dsq-append-post-' + post_id).innerHTML = Dsq.Templates.postBox(post_id, true);
						Dsq.$('dsq-form-area-' + post_id).innerHTML = '';

						var theme = (typeof disqus_frame_theme == 'undefined') ? 'default' : disqus_frame_theme;
						Dsq.Iframes.showReplyIframeInContainer(Dsq.$('dsq-form-area-' + post_id), post_id, {theme: theme});

					});
					Dsq.frames['reply_' + post_id].setState(post_id, _meta.depth);
				}
			}
			Dsq.$('dsq-append-post-' + post_id).className = 'dsq-append-post';
			Dsq.$('dsq-comment-footer-reply-' + post_id).className = 'dsq-comment-footer-reply-active';
			
		} else {

			Dsq.$('dsq-append-post-' + post_id).style.display = 'none';
			Dsq.$('dsq-append-post-' + post_id).className = '';
			Dsq.$('dsq-comment-footer-reply-' + post_id).className = 'dsq-comment-footer-reply';
		}
		
		this.stateReplyToggled[post_id] = !this.stateReplyToggled[post_id];

		if(Dsq.Utils.ie && this.stateReplyToggled[post_id]) {

		}

		Dsq.Events.fire(Dsq.Events.REPLY_IFRAME_TOGGLED, {
			postId: post_id,
			opened: this.stateReplyToggled[post_id]
		});
	};
	
	this.moderateOptions = function(post_id) {
		var _meta = Dsq.jsonData.posts[post_id];
		var userData = Dsq.jsonData['users'][_meta.user_key];
		
		if(!Dsq.jsonData.request.is_moderator && !Dsq.jsonData.request.is_global_moderator) { return false; }

		var html;
		
		html = ' \
		<div class="dsq-moderate-options"> \
		<table>'
		+ (_meta.email ? '<tr><td>Email</td><td>' + _meta.email + '</td></tr>' : '')
		+ (_meta.ip ? '<tr><td>IP address</td><td>' + _meta.ip + '</td></tr>' : '')
		+ '<tr> \
			<td>Actions</td> \
			<td><ul>'
			+ (Dsq.jsonData.request.moderator_can_edit
				? '<li><a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Post.edit(this, ' + post_id + '); Dsq.Popup._closePopup(null, true); return false;">Edit Comment</a></li>'
				: '')
			+ '<li><a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Post.removePost(' + post_id + ', 1); Dsq.Popup._closePopup(null, true); return false;">Delete Comment</a></li> \
			<li><a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Post.reportSpam(' + post_id + '); Dsq.Popup._closePopup(null, true); return false;">Mark Spam</a></li> \
			<li><a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Popup.blacklist(' + post_id + '); return false">Block User</a></li> \
			</ul></td> \
			</table> \
		</div> \
		';
		
		html += '<p>Go to the full <a href="http://disqus.com/comments/moderate/" target="_blank">moderate panel</a> for more options.</p>';
		
		return Dsq.Popup.popModal(html, 'Moderate Options', post_id);
	};
	
	this.placeholder = {
		'class': 'dsq-placeholder',
		'name': Dsq.Strings.NAME,
		'email': Dsq.Strings.EMAIL,
		'website': Dsq.Strings.WEBSITE + ' (' + Dsq.Strings.OPTIONAL.toLowerCase() + ')'
	};
	
	this.handlePlaceholder = function(evt, el, key) {
		var placeholder = Dsq.Templates.placeholder[key];
		var className = Dsq.Templates.placeholder['class'];
		
		switch(evt.type) {
			case 'focus':
				if(el.value == placeholder) {
					el.value = '';
					el.className = '';
				}
				break;

			case 'blur':
				if(el.value == '') {
					el.value = placeholder;
					el.className = className;
				}
				break;
			default:
				break;
		}
	};
	
	this.paginate = function(page, el_clicked) {

		var extra_params = '';

		if(typeof disqus_per_page != 'undefined') {
			extra_params += '&per_page=' + disqus_per_page;
		}
		if(typeof disqus_sort != 'undefined') {
			extra_params += '&sort=' + disqus_sort;
		}

		Dsq.$('dsq-pagination').innerHTML += '<img src="http://media.disqus.com/images/loading-small.gif">';
		
		if(el_clicked) {
			Dsq.Templates.setLoadingButton(el_clicked);
		}
		
		Dsq.Utils.execScript('http://disqus.com/forums/scobleizer/thread.js'
			+ '?slug='	+ 'i_am_not_an_american'
			+ '&p='		+ page
			+ extra_params);
	};
	
	
	this.rate = function(el, id, vote) {


		if(Dsq.jsonData.request.is_authenticated || Dsq.jsonData.forum.allow_anon_votes) {
			if(vote == 1) {
				Dsq.$('dsq-like-' + id).innerHTML = '<img src="http://media.disqus.com/images/loading-small.gif">';
			}
			Dsq.Utils.execScript('http://disqus.com/forums/scobleizer/vote.js'
				+ '?post_id='    + id
				+ '&vote='        + vote);
		} else {
			Dsq.Popup.login('To rate, please log in');
		}
	};

	this.voted = function(post_id, points, vote) {

		Dsq.$('dsq-like-pts-' + post_id).innerHTML = points + Dsq.Utils.pluralize(points, ' person', ' people') + ' liked this.';

		if(vote) {
			Dsq.$('dsq-like-' + post_id).innerHTML = 'You liked this.&nbsp;&nbsp;';
		}
	};




	this.postComment_onSuccess = function(response, parent_post_id, post_id) {
		var approved = response.message.post_meta.approved;

		if (parent_post_id) {
			Dsq.Post.toggleReply(parent_post_id);
		}

		Dsq.Popup._closePopup(null, true);
		
		if (approved) {
			Dsq.Post.incrementPostCount();
			Dsq.Post.outlineComment(post_id);
		} else {			
			var unapproved_msg = 'Thanks for posting!\
	 Your comment must be approved by a moderator before appearing here.\
			';
			Dsq.Popup.popModal(unapproved_msg, 'Comment awaiting approval', post_id);
		}

		var sharing_results = response.message.sharing_results;
		var sharing_errors = '';
		for (var service in sharing_results) {
			if (sharing_results.hasOwnProperty(service) === true) {
				if (sharing_results[service].error === true) {
					sharing_errors += service + ', ';
				}
			}
		}

		if (sharing_results.facebook && sharing_results.facebook.callback) {
			FB.ensureInit(function() {
				FB.Connect.streamPublish('', sharing_results.facebook.attachment);
			});
		}

		if (sharing_errors !== '') {
			var message = 'Your comment was posted, but there were errors sharing with the following connections: ';
			message += sharing_errors.replace(/,\s$/, '');
			message += '<p><a href="' + Dsq.jsonData.settings.disqus_url + '/profile/connections" target="_blank">Configure your connections here</a></p>'
			Dsq.Popup.popModal(message, 'Sharing options');
		}

		Dsq.Templates.setLoadingButton(false);
	};

	this.postComment_onFailure = function(response, parent_post_id, post_id) {

		Dsq.Templates.setLoadingButton(false);
	};
};




// TODO: It might be faster to use string methods to find all <li (...) </li> blocks and pass to Dsq.PostHandler manually.
Dsq.CommentsHandler = function(str, head, post_id, content, tail, offset, s) {
	var prepend_post = Dsq.Templates.prependPost(post_id);
	var append_post = Dsq.Templates.appendPost(post_id);

	content = content.replace(Dsq.POST_RE, Dsq.PostHandler);
	Dsq.Templates.postLoopCounter++;
	head = Dsq.Templates.Filters.commentContainer(post_id, head);
	return prepend_post + head + content + tail + append_post;
};

Dsq.PostHandler = function(str, h_head, post_id, h_content, h_tail, b_head, b_content, b_tail, offset, s) {
	var prepend_header = Dsq.Templates.postPrependHeader(post_id);
	var append_header = Dsq.Templates.postAppendHeader(post_id);
	var prepend_body = Dsq.Templates.preBody(post_id);
	var append_body = Dsq.Templates.postBody(post_id);
	var append_footer = Dsq.Templates.postFooter(post_id);

	b_content = b_content.replace(Dsq.POST_BODY_RE, Dsq.PostBodyHandler);
	return h_head + prepend_header + h_content + append_header + h_tail + b_head + prepend_body + b_content + append_body + b_tail + append_footer;
};

Dsq.PostBodyHandler = function(str, head, post_id, content, tail, offset, s) {
	content = Dsq.Templates.Filters.commentContent(post_id, content);
	return head + content + tail;
};

Dsq.MediaPostHandler = function(str, args, offset, s) {
	args = args.split(' ');
	if(args[0] == 'seesmic') {
		return '<br />' + Dsq.Templates.mediaSeesmic(args[1], args[2]);
	}
	return '';
};


/**
 * Shorcuts
 */
Dsq.$ = function(element) { return document.getElementById(element); };
Dsq.$b = document.body || document.getElementsByTagName('body')[0];


/**
 * Dsq.Debug: Logging functions.
 */

Dsq.Debug = new function() {this.log=function(s){};this.profile=function(f){if(typeof f == 'function')return f();else return eval(f);};};


/**
 * Dsq.Urls: URL paths
 */
Dsq.Urls = new function() {
	this.LOGIN = '/profile/login/';
	this.LOGOUT = '/logout/';
	this.REPLY = 'http://scobleizer.disqus.com/i_am_not_an_american/reply.html';
	this.REQUEST_USER_PROFILE = '/AnonymousUser/';
	this.REQUEST_USER_AVATAR = 'http://media.disqus.com/images/noavatar92.png';
};
// Dsq.Urls

/**
 * Dsq.Validators: Validation for form fields
 */
Dsq.Validators = new function() {
	this.VALID_EMAIL_RE = /^[a-z0-9\-\_\+]+(\.[a-z0-9\-\_\+]+)*\@(([a-z0-9\-\_\+]+(\.[a-z0-9\-\_\+]+)*)+\.[a-z]{2,}|([0-9]+\.){3}[0-9]+)$/i;
	this.name = function(name) {
		var error = false;

		if(typeof Dsq.Templates.placeholder !== 'undefined' &&
		   name == Dsq.Templates.placeholder.name) {
			error = true;
		}
		if(name.length <= 1) {
			error = true;
		}

		if(error) {
			return "Please enter a name to comment.";
		} else {
			return true;
		}
	};
	this.email = function(addr) {
		if(Dsq.Validators.VALID_EMAIL_RE.test(addr)) {
			return true;
		} else {
			return "Please enter a valid email to comment.";
		}
	};
	this.url = function(addr) {
		if(!addr || addr.indexOf('.') != -1) {
			return true;
		} else {
			return "Please check your website URL (this field is optional).";
		}
	};

	this.validate = function(bulk_validation, failure_callback) {
		failure_callback = failure_callback || function(e){ alert(e); };

		for(var i = 0; i < bulk_validation.length; i++) {
			v = bulk_validation[i];
			ret = v.validator(v.value);
			if(ret !== true) {
				failure_callback(ret);
				return false;
			}
		}
		return true;
	};
};

/**
 * Dsq.Utils: Generic utility functions.
 */
Dsq.Utils = new function() {
	this.ie = /msie/i.test(navigator.userAgent) && !/opera/i.test(navigator.userAgent);
	this.ie7 = (document.all && !window.opera && window.XMLHttpRequest) ? true : false;
	this.ie6 = (!window.XMLHttpRequest) ? true: false;
	this.webkit = navigator.userAgent.indexOf('AppleWebKit/') >= 0;
	this.gebiFromElementCollectionCache = {};
	this._styleSheet = null;

	this.gebiFromElement = function(el, id, tag) {
		// This only method only helps IE.
		if(!this.ie) {
			return Dsq.$(id);
		} else {
			var cacheKey = el.id + '-' + tag;
			tag = tag || 'div';
			if(typeof this.gebiFromElementCollectionCache[cacheKey] != 'undefined') {
				collection = this.gebiFromElementCollectionCache[cacheKey];
			} else {
				collection = el.getElementsByTagName(tag);
				this.gebiFromElementCollectionCache[cacheKey] = collection;
			}

			for(var i = 0; i < collection.length; i++) {
				if(collection[i].id == id) {
					return collection[i];
				}
			}
			return null;
		}
	};

	this.execOnReady = function(func) {
		var node = document.createElement('document:ready');
		try {
			node.doScroll('left');
			func();
			node = null;
		} catch(err) {
			setTimeout(function() { Dsq.Utils.execOnReady(func); }, 10);
		}
	};


	// Courtesy of http://www.quirksmode.org/js/cookies.html
	this.createCookie = function(name,value,days) {
		if (days) {
			var date = new Date();
			date.setTime(date.getTime()+(days*24*60*60*1000));
			var expires = "; expires="+date.toGMTString();
		}
		else var expires = "";
		document.cookie = name+"="+value+expires+"; path=/";
	};

	this.readCookie = function(name) {
		var nameEQ = name + "=";
		var ca = document.cookie.split(';');
		for(var i=0;i < ca.length;i++) {
			var c = ca[i];
			while (c.charAt(0)==' ') c = c.substring(1,c.length);
			if (c.indexOf(nameEQ) == 0) return c.substring(nameEQ.length,c.length);
		}
		return null;
	};

	this.eraseCookie = function(name) {
		Dsq.Utils.createCookie(name,"",-1);
	};

	this.deleteNode = function(node) {
		if(node) {
			this.deleteChildren(node);
			if(typeof node.outerHTML != 'undefined') { node.outerHTML = ''; }
			else if(node.parentNode) { node.parentNode.removeChild(node); }
			delete node;
		}
	};

	this.deleteChildren = function(node) {
		if(node) {
			for(var x = node.childNodes.length-1; x >= 0; x--) {
				var childNode = node.childNodes[x];
				if(childNode.hasChildNodes()) { this.deleteChildren(childNode); }
				if(typeof childNode.outerHTML != 'undefined') { childNode.outerHTML = ''; }
				else node.removeChild(childNode);
				delete childNode;
			}
		}
	};

	this.findPos = function(obj) {
		var curleft = 0;
		var curtop = 0;
		if (obj.offsetParent) {
			do {
				curleft += obj.offsetLeft;
				curtop += obj.offsetTop;
			} while (obj = obj.offsetParent);
		}
		return [curleft,curtop];
	};

	this.getWindowSize = function() {
		var windowWidth = -1;
		var windowHeight = -1;

		if(typeof(window.innerWidth) == 'number') { //Non-IE
			windowWidth = window.innerWidth;
			windowHeight = window.innerHeight;
		} else if(document.documentElement) { // IE 6+ in 'standards compliant mode'
			windowWidth = document.documentElement.clientWidth || document.body.clientWidth;
			windowHeight = document.documentElement.clientHeight || document.body.clientHeight;
		}

		return [windowWidth, windowHeight];
	}

	this.getScrollPos = function() {
		var scrollWidth, scrollTop;

		if(document.documentElement && (document.documentElement.scrollTop || document.documentElement.scrollWidth)) {
			scrollWidth = document.documentElement.scrollWidth;
			// IE is weird here.  If no doctype is provided, document.body.scrollTop is 0,
			// otherwise document.documentElement.scrollTop is 0.
			scrollTop = document.documentElement.scrollTop || document.body.scrollTop;
		} else if(document.body.scrollTop && document.body.scrollWidth) {
			scrollWidth = document.body.scrollWidth;
			scrollTop = document.body.scrollTop;
		}

		return [scrollWidth, scrollTop];
	}

	this.addEventListener = function(instance, eventName, listener) {
		var listenerFn = listener;
		if (instance.addEventListener) {
			instance.addEventListener(eventName, listenerFn, false);
		} else if (instance.attachEvent) {
			listenerFn = function() {
				listener(window.event);
			};
			instance.attachEvent("on" + eventName, listenerFn);
		} else {
			throw new Error("Event registration not supported");
		}
		return {
			instance: instance,
			name: eventName,
			listener: listenerFn
		};
	};

	this.removeEventListener = function(event) {
		var instance = event.instance;
		if (instance.removeEventListener) {
			instance.removeEventListener(event.name, event.listener, false);
		} else if (instance.detachEvent) {
			instance.detachEvent("on" + event.name, event.listener);
		}
	};

	this.fixIframesIE = function(id) {
		var disqusThread = Dsq.$(disqus_container_id);
		var iframes = disqusThread.getElementsByTagName('iframe');

		if(id) {
			var container = Dsq.$(id);
		} else {
			var container = Dsq.$('dsq-content');
		}

		for(i = 0; i < iframes.length; i++) {
			if (container) {
				iframes[i].style.width = container.offsetWidth;
			}
		}
	};

	this.getElementsByClassName = function(oElm, strTagName, strClassName) {
	/* Credit: Jonathan Snook [http://www.snook.ca/jonathan], Robert Nyman [http://www.robertnyman.com] */
		var arrElements = (strTagName == "*" && oElm.all)? oElm.all : oElm.getElementsByTagName(strTagName);
		var arrReturnElements = new Array();
		strClassName = strClassName.replace(/\-/g, "\\-");
		var oRegExp = new RegExp("(^|\\s)" + strClassName + "(\\s|$)");
		var oElement;
		for(var i = 0; i < arrElements.length; i++) {
			oElement = arrElements[i];
			if(oRegExp.test(oElement.className)) {
				arrReturnElements.push(oElement);
			}
		}
		return (arrReturnElements);
	};

	this.postToUrl = function(url, post_data, opt_redirect) {
		var form = document.createElement('form');
		var iframe_container = document.createElement('div');
		var id = 'dsq-temp-iframe-' + (new Date()).getTime();

		form.method = 'POST';
		form.action = url;
		if (!opt_redirect) {
			form.target = id;
		}
		iframe_container.innerHTML = '<iframe style="display:none" name="' + id + '" id="' + id + '"></iframe>';

		for(var key in post_data) {
			if(post_data.hasOwnProperty(key)) {
				var input = document.createElement('input');
				input.name = key;
				input.type = 'hidden';
				input.value = post_data[key];

				form.appendChild(input);
			}
		}

		Dsq.$b.appendChild(iframe_container);
		Dsq.$b.appendChild(form);
		form.submit();
	};

	// Strips integer id from id of element in the form ('some-id-###')
	this.extractId = function(e) {
		var chunks = e.id.split('-');
		if(chunks.length <= 1) {
			return 0;
		} else {
			var retval = parseInt(chunks[chunks.length-1]);
			return !isNaN(retval) ? retval : null;
		}
	};

	this.getStyle = function(el, styleProp) {
		if(el.currentStyle) {
			var y = el.currentStyle[styleProp];
		} else if(window.getComputedStyle) {
			var y = document.defaultView.getComputedStyle(el, null).getPropertyValue(styleProp);
		}

		if(y == 'transparent' || y == '') {
			this.getStyle(el.parentNode, styleProp);
		} else {
			return y;
		}
	};

	this.execScript = function(url, append_qs, container) {
		var script = document.createElement('script');
		append_qs = typeof append_qs == 'undefined' ? true : append_qs;
		container = container || Dsq.container;

		if(append_qs) {
			var j = (url.indexOf('?') >= 0) ? '&' : '?';
			url += j + (new Date()).getTime();
		}
		script.type = 'text/javascript';
		script.charset = 'UTF-8';
		script.src = url;
		container.appendChild(script);
		return script;
	};

	this.pluralize = function(num, singular, plural) {
		return (num != 1) ? plural || 's' : singular || '';
	};

	this.getRequestParams = function(queryString /* optional */) {
		var pairs, tuple;
		var params = {};

		queryString = queryString || window.location.search.substring(1);
		pairs = queryString.split('&');

		for (var i = 0, pair; pair = pairs[i]; i++) {
			tuple = pair.split('=');
			params[tuple[0]] = (tuple[1] || true);
		}

		return params;
	};

	this.addCssRule = function(selector, styleText, index) {
		var stylesheet;
		index = index || 0;

		if(!this._styleSheet) {
			var styleEl = document.createElement('style');
			document.getElementsByTagName('head')[0].appendChild(styleEl);
			this._styleSheet = styleEl.sheet;
			if(!this._styleSheet) {
				// IE does not like our newly created stylesheet.
				this._styleSheet = document.styleSheets[document.styleSheets.length-1];
			}
		}
		stylesheet = this._styleSheet;

		if(stylesheet.insertRule) {
			var ruleText = selector + ' { ' + styleText + ' }';
			if(index == -1) {
				index = stylesheet.cssRules.length;
			}
			stylesheet.insertRule(ruleText, index);
		} else if(stylesheet.addRule) {
			stylesheet.addRule(selector, styleText, index);
		}
	};

	this.forEachIn = function(obj, callback) {
		for(var key in obj) {
			if(obj.hasOwnProperty(key)) {
				callback(key, obj[key]);
			}
		}
	};

	this._interpolateGlobalContext = {
		// values that get used a lot and are global to the request
		'profile_url': Dsq.Urls.REQUEST_USER_PROFILE,

		'disqus_url': Dsq.jsonData.settings.disqus_url,
		'media_url': Dsq.jsonData.settings.media_url,
		'request_username': Dsq.jsonData.request.username,
		'request_display_username': Dsq.jsonData.request.display_username,
		'forum_name': Dsq.jsonData.forum.name
	};

	this.renderFromContextStack = function(key, contexts) {
		// Returns the first instance of `key` in the array of objects `contexts` or else ''
		for (var i=0; i<contexts.length; i++) {
			if (contexts[i][key] !== undefined) {
				return String(contexts[i][key]);
			}
		}
		throw new Error('key ' + key + ' not found in context');
	};

	var that = this;
	this.interpolate = function(fmt, opt_localContext) {
		// Interpolate `fmt` named-format string with an assumed global context.
		// Based on `interpolate` in django.views.i18n
		var contextStack = [opt_localContext || {}, that._interpolateGlobalContext];
		return fmt.replace(/%\(\w+\)s/g, function(match){
			return that.renderFromContextStack(match.slice(2,-2), contextStack);
		});
	};

	this.stripTags = function(s) {
		// Removes HTML tags from `s`
		return s.replace(/(<([^>]+)>)/g,"");

	};

	this.assert = function(b) {
		if (!b) {
			throw new Error('Assertion error.');
		}
	};

};
// Dsq.Utils

/**
 * Dsq.Popup: Popup helper functions.
 */
Dsq.Popup = new function() {
	this.timeHide = new Array();
	this.timeShow = new Array();
	this.activePopup = {};
	this.profileCache = {};
	this.statusCache = {};

	this.showTimer = function(post_id) {
		// clear the hide timer
		clearTimeout(this.timeHide[post_id]);

		// start the timer
		if(!Dsq.Popup.profileIsOn && !Dsq.Thread.adminIsOn) {
			this.timeShow[post_id] = setTimeout("Dsq.Popup.popProfile(\"" + post_id + "\")", 400);
		}
	};

	this.hideTimer = function(post_id) {
		// clear the show timer
		clearTimeout(this.timeShow[post_id]);
	};

	this.updateProfile = function(username) {
		// Callback from /embed/profile.js
		if (this.statusCache[username]) {
			var statusEl = Dsq.$('dsq-profile-status-' + username);
			statusEl.innerHTML = this.statusCache[username];
			statusEl.style.display = 'block';
		}

		if (this.profileCache[username]) {
			var _cache = this.profileCache[username];

			var _genhtml = function(text) { return '<span><big>' + text + '</big></span>'; };
			var _no_comments = _genhtml(Dsq.FmtStrings.NUMBER_OF_COMMENTS(_cache.comments_count));
			var _no_likes = _genhtml(Dsq.FmtStrings.NUMBER_OF_LIKES(_cache.likes_count));
			var _no_points = _genhtml(Dsq.FmtStrings.NUMBER_OF_POINTS(_cache.points));

			var statsEl = Dsq.$('dsq-popup-profile-user-stats-' + username);
			statsEl.innerHTML = '';

			if (Dsq.jsonData.users[username].registered) {
				statsEl.innerHTML = _no_comments + _no_likes;
			}
			statsEl.innerHTML += _no_points;

			var activeSites = '';
			for (var i = 0; i < _cache.active_sites.length; i++) {
				var site = _cache.active_sites[i];
				activeSites += '<li><a href="' + site.url + '"> \
					<img src="' + site.favicon + '"/ width="16" height="16"/></a>\
					<a href="' + site.url + '">' + site.name + '</a></li>';
			}
			if (activeSites !== '') {
				Dsq.$('dsq-popup-profile-active-sites-' + username).innerHTML = activeSites;
			} else {
				Dsq.$('dsq-popup-profile-active-sites-' + username).innerHTML = 'This site.';
			}

			var moderatedSites = '';
			for (var i = 0; i < _cache.moderated_sites.length; i++) {
				var site = _cache.moderated_sites[i];
				moderatedSites += '<li><a href="' + site.url + '"> \
					<img src="' + site.favicon + '"/ width="16" height="16"/></a>\
					<a href="' + site.url + '">' + site.name + '</a></li>';
			}
			if (moderatedSites !== '') {
				Dsq.$('dsq-popup-profile-moderated-' + username).innerHTML = moderatedSites;
			} else {
				Dsq.$('dsq-popup-profile-moderated-wrapper-' + username).innerHTML = '';
			}
		}

		// Reposition popup after full HTML is rendered
		if(Dsq.Popup.activePopup && Dsq.Popup.activePopup.el) {
			Dsq.Popup.initPopup(Dsq.Popup.activePopup.el, Dsq.Popup.activePopup.id, Dsq.Popup.activePopup.type);
		}

	};

	this.showCookieMsgs = function() {
		var title = '';
		var message = '';
		var numAlerts = 0;

		Dsq.Utils.forEachIn(Dsq.jsonData.cookie_messages, function(k, v) {
			if (!v) return;

			switch(k) {
				// Cookie: Twitter
				case 'post_twitter':
					if (v === 'error') {
						title = 'Twitter Error!';
						message += '<li id="dsq-msg-twitter-error">Oops, we couldn\'t tweet this comment. Please check your <a href="http://disqus.com/account/services">account settings</a>.</li>';
					} else {
						var _msg = v.split(':');
						title = 'Tweeted!';
						message += '<li id="dsq-msg-twitter-success">Your comment was successfully tweeted. <a href="http://twitter.com/' + _msg[0] + '/status/' + _msg[1] + '">Click here to view the tweet</a>.</li>';
					}
					break;
				// Cookie: Unapproved Post
				case 'post_not_approved':
					title = 'Comment awaiting approval by a moderator';
					message += '<li id="dsq-msg-post-not-approved">Your comment must be approved by a moderator before appearing here.</li>';
					break;
				// Cookie: Profile Found
				case 'post_has_profile':
					title = 'Use your existing commenter profile';
					message += '<li id="dsq-msg-post-has-profile">You have just posted your commment as a <span class="dsq-badge-guest">Guest</span>, but you may already have a <span class="logo-disqus">Disqus</span> Profile.<br /><br /><a href="http://disqus.com/claim">Log in and claim this comment!</a></li>';
					break;
				case 'user_created':
					var _data = v.split(':');
					title = 'Profile created!';
					message += '<li id="dsq-msg-user-created">You have just created a <span class="logo-disqus">Disqus</span> Profile, the best way to claim, manage, and track your comments all over the web. \
					<br /><br />A confirmation is being sent to <strong>' + _data[1] + '</strong>. Please check for this email in order to verify your profile. \
					<ul class="dsq-list-tick"> \
						<li>Your username is <strong>' + _data[0] +'</strong>. <a href="http://disqus.com/people/' + _data[0] + '/" target="_blank">Click here to view your public profile</a>.</li> \
						<li>Be sure to set your profile picture, as well as connect your <span class="dsq-badge-facebook">Facebook</span> and <span class="dsq-badge-twitter">Twitter</span> accounts. <a href="http://disqus.com/account/" target="_blank">Click here for account settings</a>.</li> \
					</ul> \
					</li>'
					break;
				default:
					break;
			}
			numAlerts++;
		});

		if(numAlerts > 1) {
			message = '<ul class="dsq-list-bluebullet">' + message;
			message += '</ul>';
			title = 'Thanks for posting!';
		}
		if(numAlerts > 0) {
			if(typeof(disqus_cookie_msgs) == 'function') {
				disqus_cookie_msgs(message, title);
			} else {
				Dsq.Popup.popModal(message, title);
			}
		}
	};

	this.helpBadges = function(post_id) {
		var html = ' \
			<ul class="dsq-popup-help"> \
				<li><span class="dsq-badge dsq-badge-verified">Verified</span> has a <span class="logo-disqus">Disqus</span> Profile with a confirmed email address.</li> \
				<li><span class="dsq-badge dsq-badge-registered">Registered</span> has a <span class="logo-disqus">Disqus</span> Profile, but has not yet confirmed his or her email address.</li> \
				<li><span class="dsq-badge dsq-badge-guest">Guest</span> is not logged in with any account and has not claimed his or her comments.</li> \
				<li class="dsq-help-otheraccts">Other accounts</li> \
				<li><span class="dsq-badge dsq-badge-facebook">Facebook</span> is using his or her Facebook profile via Facebook Connect.</li> \
				<li><span class="dsq-badge dsq-badge-twitter">Twitter</span> is using his or her Twitter profile via Twitter Sign-in.</li> \
				<li><span class="dsq-badge dsq-badge-openid">OpenID</span> is using his or her OpenID.</li> \
			</ul> \
		';

		this.popModal(html, 'Help: Types of Commenters', post_id);
		return;
	};

	this.permalink = function(post_id) {
		var header = 'Link to this comment';
		var body = '<strong>You are anchored to</strong>:<br />' + document.location.protocol + '//' + document.location.host + document.location.pathname + document.location.search + '#comment-' + post_id;

		this.popModal(body, header, post_id);
	};

	this.login = function(header, body) {
		var h = header || 'Login or Register';
		var b = body || '';
		b += Dsq.Templates.frameLogin({id: 'dsq-popup-login'});
		b += '</iframe>'; // HACK: Sometimes there is something funky with the IFRAME SRC that causes no end tag
		this.popModal(b, h, null, true, 'dsq-popup-login');
	};

	this.blacklist = function(id) {
		var _meta = Dsq.jsonData.posts[id];
		var userData = Dsq.jsonData['users'][_meta.user_key];
		var title = 'Add to Blacklist';
		var message = ' \
		Adding this person to the blacklist will block him or her from commenting on this site. Check the following types that you would like to add to the blacklist:'
		+ (userData['registered'] ?
			'<div class="dsq-blacklist-option"> \
				<input id="dsq-blacklist-username" type="checkbox" checked> \
				<label for="dsq-blacklist-username"><strong>Username</strong>: ' + userData['username'] + '</label> \
			</div>'
			: '')
		+ (_meta.email ?
			'<div class="dsq-blacklist-option"> \
				<input id="dsq-blacklist-email" type="checkbox" checked> \
				<label for="dsq-blacklist-email"><strong>Email address</strong>: ' + _meta.email + '</label> \
			</div>'
			: '')
		+ '<div class="dsq-blacklist-option"> \
			<input id="dsq-blacklist-ip" type="checkbox" onclick="Dsq.$(\'dsq-blacklist-ip-warning\').style.display=\'block\'"> \
			<label for="dsq-blacklist-ip"><strong>IP address</strong>: ' + _meta.ip + '</label> \
		</div> \
		';

		message += ' \
			<p id="dsq-blacklist-ip-warning" style="display:none">	\
				Note: Blocking this person\'s IP address may also unintentionally prevent others, who share his/her IP address, from commenting on this site. \
				This may include people who are sharing the same computer, living in the same house, or using the same Internet provider. Only block an IP address as a last resort. \
			</p> \
		';

		message += ' \
			<p style="text-align:center"><button type="button" onclick="Dsq.Post.blockUser(' + id + '); this.disabled=true; this.innerHTML=\'Just one moment...\'">Add to Blacklist</button></p> \
		';

		Dsq.Popup.popModal(message, title);
	};

	this.remoteAccountSettings = function() {
		var body = '';
		// Set up IFrame.
		var params = {};
		var base_url = 'http://disqus.com/forums/scobleizer/_auth/embed/remote_settings/';
		var attributes = {id: 'dsq-popup-account-settings'};
		if (typeof disqus_frame_theme != 'undefined') {
			params['theme'] = disqus_frame_theme;
		}

		body = Dsq.Templates._frameGeneric(base_url, params, attributes);
		this.popModal(body, 'Account Settings', null, true, 'dsq-popup-account-settings');
	};

	this.popModal = function(message, title, post_id, use_listener, extra_classes) {
		var container = document.createElement('div');
		var header, body;

		Dsq.Popup._closePopup(null, true);

		if(typeof(title) == 'undefined') { title = ''; }
		if(typeof(use_listener) == 'undefined') { use_listener = true; }

		if(post_id) {
			container.id = 'dsq-popup-message-' + post_id;
		} else {
			container.id = 'dsq-popup-message';
		}

		header = title;
		body = message;

		container.innerHTML = Dsq.Templates.popupModal(header, body);
		Dsq.Popup.initPopup(container, post_id, 'message', extra_classes);
		if(use_listener) {
			Dsq.Popup.popupListener = Dsq.Utils.addEventListener(document, 'mouseup', Dsq.Popup._closePopup);
		}
	};

	this.popAlert = this.popModal;

	this.loading = function(post_id) {
		var title = Dsq.Strings.JUST_A_MOMENT;
		var body = '<div style="text-align:center; padding: 5px 0 10px 0"><img src="http://media.disqus.com/images/loading.gif" alt="" /></div>'
		Dsq.Popup.lightbox(body, title, post_id);
	};

	this.lightbox = function(message, title, post_id) {
		// Wraps Dsq.Popup.popModal

		var overlay = document.createElement('div');
		overlay.id = 'dsq-overlay';
		overlay.className = 'dsq-overlay';
		Dsq.$b.appendChild(overlay);
		
		Dsq.Popup.popModal(message, title, post_id, false, 'dsq-lightbox');
	};

	this.popProfile = function(post_id, userKey) {
		var post = Dsq.jsonData['posts'][post_id];
		if (post && post.has_been_anonymized) {
			Dsq.Popup.popModal('This message was anonymized by its previous owner.', 'Anonymized', post_id);
			return;
		}

		if(post_id) {
			userKey = Dsq.jsonData['posts'][post_id].user_key;	
		}
		var userData = Dsq.jsonData['users'][userKey];
		var elId = 'dsq-popup-profile-' + userKey;
		var container = document.createElement('div');

		if(this.activePopup.el) {
			this._closePopup(null, true);
			if(this.activePopup.linkClicked) {
				this.activePopup.linkClicked = false;
				return;
			}
		}

		container.id = elId;
		container.innerHTML = Dsq.Templates.popupProfile(userKey);

		this.initPopup(container, post_id, 'profile');
		this.popupListener = Dsq.Utils.addEventListener(document, 'mouseup', this._closePopup);

		if(!this.profileCache[userKey]) {
			Dsq.Utils.execScript('http://disqus.com/embed/profile.js'
				+ '?username=' + userKey
				+ '&anon=' + (userData['registered'] ? 0 : 1)
				+ '&f=' + Dsq.jsonData['request'].forum);
		} else {
			this.updateProfile(userKey);
		}
	};

	this._closePopup = function(e, force) {
		var activePopup = Dsq.Popup.activePopup.el;
		var id = Dsq.Popup.activePopup.id;
		var link = 'dsq-avatar-' + id; // HACK: Specific to profile toggle target

		// HACK: This event should be gone if there is no active popup.
		if(!activePopup) {
			return;
		}
		if(force || !Dsq.Popup.isClicked(e, activePopup.id)) {
			// TODO: This is breaking iE?
			if(Dsq.Popup.popupListener) {
				Dsq.Utils.removeEventListener(Dsq.Popup.popupListener);
			}
			
			// Kill overlay
			var overlay = Dsq.$('dsq-overlay');
			if(overlay) { Dsq.Utils.deleteNode(overlay); }
			
			try {
				Dsq.Utils.deleteNode(activePopup);
			} catch(e) {
				// HACK: IE6 throws an error when using deleteNode() with a node containing a <table> in the html.
				activePopup.parentNode.removeChild(activePopup);
			}
			Dsq.Popup.activePopup = {};
		}

		if(!force && Dsq.Popup.isClicked(e, link)) {
 			Dsq.Popup.activePopup.linkClicked = true;
		}

	};

	this.initPopup = function(popup, post_id, type, extra_classes) {
		popup.className = 'dsq-popup dsq-popup-' + type + ' ' + (extra_classes ? extra_classes : '');
		if(Dsq.Utils.ie6 || Dsq.Utils.ie7) {
			// HACK: We can't modify the body before it's ready, so we need
			//       to use an IE-safe "DOMReady" workaround before loading
			//       our popup.
			Dsq.Utils.execOnReady(function() {Dsq.$b.appendChild(popup); });
		} else {
			Dsq.$b.appendChild(popup);
		}

		popup.style.display = 'block';

		var xPos = (Dsq.Utils.getWindowSize()[0] - popup.offsetWidth) / 2;
		var yPos = (Dsq.Utils.getWindowSize()[1] - popup.offsetHeight) / 2;

		if(Dsq.Utils.ie6) {
			yPos += Dsq.Utils.getScrollPos()[1];
		}

		popup.style.left = xPos + 'px';
		popup.style.top = yPos + 'px';

		Dsq.Popup.activePopup = {
			'el' : popup,
			'id' : post_id,
			'type': type,
			'linkClicked' : false
		};
	};

	this.isClicked = function(e, id) {
		var t = e.target || e.srcElement;
		while(t && t.parentNode) {
			if(t.id == id) {
				return true;
			}

			t = t.parentNode;
		}
		return false;
	};
};
// Dsq.Popup

/**
 * Dsq.Templates
 */
Dsq.Templates = new function() {
	/*
	 * Counter keeping track of the number of posts iterated over.
	 */
	this.postLoopCounter = 0;
	this.filters = {};
	this.addPostContainer = 'dsq-post-add';
	this.textareaContainer = 'dsq-post-add';

	this.registerTemplate = function(name, func) {
		this['$$_' + name] = func;

		if(typeof DsqLocal.Filters != 'undefined'
		&& typeof DsqLocal.Filters[name] == 'function') {
			// Push filters to this.filters to unify code.
			this.filters[name] = this.filters[name] || [];
			this.filters[name].push(DsqLocal.Filters[name]);
		}

		this[name] = function() {
			var ret;

			if(typeof DsqLocal.Templates != 'undefined'
			&& typeof DsqLocal.Templates[name] == 'function') {
				ret = DsqLocal.Templates[name].apply(this, arguments);
			}

			if(ret === undefined) {
				ret = this['$$_' + name].apply(this, arguments);
			}

			if(this.filters[name]) {
				var args = [ret];

				args.push.apply(args, arguments);
				for(var i = 0; i < this.filters[name].length; i++) {
					ret = this.filters[name][i].apply(this, args);
				}
			}

			return ret;
		};
	};

	this.registerFilter = function(name, func) {
		this.filters[name] = this.filters[name] || [];
		this.filters[name].push(func);
	};

	/**
	 * Dsq.Templates.Filters
	 */
	this.Filters = new function() {
		this.commentContainer = function(post_id, s) {
			var _meta = Dsq.jsonData.posts[post_id];
			var classes = [];
			if(Dsq.jsonData.request.page > 1) {
				classes.push('dsq-append');
			}

			//
			// Extra classes used for custom themes
			//

			if(_meta.depth) {
				classes.push('dsq-comment-child', 'dsq-depth-' + _meta.depth, 'dsq-parent-is-' + _meta.parent_post_id);
			}


			//

			if(_meta.author_is_creator) {
				// TODO: We need to deprecate the "special" class since it is not properly prefixed.
				classes.push('special', 'dsq-special');
			}
			if(_meta.author_is_moderator) {
				classes.push('dsq-moderator');
			}
			classes.push(['dsq-odd', 'dsq-even'][Dsq.Templates.postLoopCounter % 2]);

			s = s.substring(0, s.lastIndexOf('>'));
			return s + ' class="dsq-comment ' + classes.join(' ') + '" style="margin-left:' + _meta.depth*30 + 'px">';
		};

		this.commentContent = function(post_id, s) {
			var _meta = Dsq.jsonData.posts[post_id];
			if (_meta.killed) {
				return '<em>Comment removed.</em>';
			} else if (!_meta.approved) {
				return '<em>This comment was flagged for review.</em>';
			}

			s = s.replace(Dsq.MEDIA_POST_RE, Dsq.MediaPostHandler);
			return s;
		};
	};

	//
	// Thread
	//
	// TODO: These need to be stripped of all Django template tags.

	this.authPost = function() {
		if (!Dsq.jsonData.context.show_reply) {
			return '';
		}
		var result = [];
		result = result.concat([
				'<div id="dsq-auth"',
						Dsq.jsonData.integration.reply_position ? 'class="dsq-auth-bottom"' : '',
						'>',
					'<div class="dsq-by">',
						'<a href="http://disqus.com" target="_blank">',
							(Dsq.jsonData.integration.disqus_logo ?
								Dsq.Utils.interpolate('<img src="%(media_url)s/images/embed/by-disqus.png" alt="discussion by DISQUS">') :
								Dsq.Utils.interpolate('<img src="%(media_url)s/images/embed/dsq-button-120x19.png" alt="discussion by DISQUS">')
							),
						'</a>',
					'</div>',
					'<div class="dsq-auth-header">',
						'<h3 id="dsq-add-new-comment" class="dsq-h3-addcomment">',
								Dsq.Strings.ADD_NEW_COMMENT,
						'</h3>',
						'<div id="dsq-login">',
						(!Dsq.jsonData.request.is_authenticated && Dsq.jsonData.forum.allow_anon_post
								? '<p class="dsq-login-message" id="dsq-login-message">You are commenting as a <a class="dsq-help" title="Click for more information" href="#" onclick="Dsq.Popup.helpBadges(); return false">Guest</a>. You may select one to log into:</p>'
								: '')
		]);
		if (!Dsq.jsonData.request.is_authenticated) {
			result = result.concat([
							Dsq.Utils.interpolate(
								'<a id="dsq-login-toggle" href="%(disqus_url)s%(login_url)s?next=article:%(thread_id)s" onclick="Dsq.Popup.login(); return false"><img class="dsq-login-icon" src="%(media_url)s/images/dsq-profile-btn.png" title="%(log_into)s" alt="%(log_into)s"/></a>',
								{login_url: Dsq.Urls.LOGIN, thread_id: Dsq.jsonData.thread.id, log_into: Dsq.Strings.LOG_INTO_DISQUS}
								),
							'&nbsp; ',
							(Dsq.jsonData.context.use_fb_connect ?
								'<div id="dsq-fbc-login" onlogin="DisqusFbcParentController.onLogin()" size="medium" background="light" length="short" style="display:inline; margin-right:7px"></div>' :
								''
							),
							(Dsq.jsonData.context.use_twitter_signin ?
								Dsq.Utils.interpolate(
									'<div id="dsq-twitter-login" class="dsq-twitter-login" onclick="Dsq.Twitter.startTwitterConnect();" style="display:inline; cursor: pointer"><img src="%(media_url)s/images/twitter-signin-short.png" style="margin-right:7px" /></div>', {}) : ''),
							(Dsq.jsonData.context.use_openid ?
								Dsq.Utils.interpolate(
									'<div id="dsq-openid-login" class="dsq-openid-login" onclick="Dsq.OpenID.requestURL();" style="display:inline; cursor:pointer;"><img src="%(media_url)s/images/openid-login-button.png"/></div>', {}
								) : '')
			]);
		}
		result = result.concat([
						'</div>', // dsq-login
					'</div>', // dsq-auth-header
					'<div id="dsq-authenticated" class="dsq-authenticated" ',
						Dsq.jsonData.request.is_authenticated ? 'style="display:block"' : '',
						'>',
						'<div class="dsq-authenticated-pic">',
								Dsq.Utils.interpolate('<a href="%(url)s" title="%(request_display_username)s">' +
																			'<img class="dsq-post-avatar" src="%(avatar_url)s" alt="" /></a>',
																			{avatar_url: Dsq.Urls.REQUEST_USER_AVATAR,
																			url: (Dsq.jsonData.request.is_remote
																					 ? Dsq.jsonData.request.url
																					 : Dsq.jsonData.settings.disqus_url + Dsq.Urls.REQUEST_USER_PROFILE) }),
						'</div>',
						'<div class="dsq-authenticated-info">',
							'<ul>',
								'<li>',
									(Dsq.jsonData.request.is_remote
										? Dsq.FmtStrings.LOGGED_IN_AS(
												Dsq.Utils.interpolate('<a href="%(url)s" title="%(request_display_username)s">%(request_display_username)s</a>', {url:Dsq.jsonData.request.url})
										  )
										: Dsq.FmtStrings.LOGGED_IN_AS(
												Dsq.Utils.interpolate('<a href="%(disqus_url)s%(profile_url)s" title="%(request_display_username)s">%(request_display_username)s</a>')
											)
									),
								'</li>',
								'<li class="logout">',
									(!Dsq.jsonData.request.is_remote
										? Dsq.Utils.interpolate('<img class="dsq-login-icon" src="%(media_url)s/images/dsqicon12.png" alt="%(logged_in_as)s"/>&nbsp',
											{logged_in_as: Dsq.FmtStrings.LOGGED_IN_AS(Dsq.jsonData.request.display_username)})
										: ''),

									(!Dsq.jsonData.request.is_remote
										? Dsq.Utils.interpolate('<a href="%(disqus_url)s%(logout_url)s?ctkn=%(csrf_token)s" title="%(logout_from_disqus)s">',
											{logout_url: Dsq.Urls.LOGOUT, csrf_token: Dsq.CSRF_TOKEN, logout_from_disqus: Dsq.FmtStrings.LOGOUT_FROM('DISQUS')})
										: ((Dsq.jsonData.request.remote_domain == 'twitter')
												? Dsq.Utils.interpolate('using Twitter (<a href="%(disqus_url)s%(logout_url)s?ctkn=%(csrf_token)s" title="Logout">Logout</a>)',
												 {logout_url: Dsq.Urls.LOGOUT, csrf_token: Dsq.CSRF_TOKEN})
												: ((Dsq.jsonData.request.remote_domain == 'openid')
													 ? Dsq.Utils.interpolate('using OpenID (<a href="%(disqus_url)s%(logout_url)s?ctkn=%(csrf_token)s" title="Logout">Logout</a>)',
													 {logout_url: Dsq.Urls.LOGOUT, csrf_token: Dsq.CSRF_TOKEN})
													 : ''
													)
											)
									),

									(!Dsq.jsonData.request.is_remote ? Dsq.FmtStrings.LOGOUT_FROM('<span class="logo-disqus">DISQUS</span>') : ''),
									'</a>',
								'</li>',
							'</ul>',
						'</div>',
					'</div>'
		]);
		if (Dsq.jsonData.context.use_fb_connect) {
			result = result.concat([
					'<div id="dsq-fbc-authenticated" class="dsq-authenticated">',
						'<div id="dsq-fbc-profilepic" class="dsq-authenticated-pic" uid="loggedinuser" type="FB.XFBML.ProfilePic" size="square" facebook-logo="true"></div>',
						'<div class="dsq-authenticated-info">',
							'<ul>',
								'<li>',
									'Logged in as <span id="dsq-fbc-name" uid="loggedinuser" type="FB.XFBML.Name" linked="true" useyou="false"></span>',
								'</li>',
								'<li class="logout">using Facebook Connect <a href="#" onclick="javascript:DisqusFbcParentController.logout();return false;">(Logout)</a></li>',
							'</ul>',
						'</div>',
					'</div>'
			]);
		}
		result = result.concat([
				'</div>', // dsq-auth
				'<div id="dsq-toolbar-items">',
				'</div>'
		]);
		result = result.concat([
					//
					//
					//
				((!Dsq.jsonData.forum.allow_anon_post && !Dsq.jsonData.request.is_authenticated) ?
					// Needs to be translated:
					('<p id="dsq-no-anon-msg">Required: Please log into <span class="logo-disqus">Disqus</span> ' +
					(Dsq.jsonData.context.use_fb_connect ? 'or connect with Facebook ' : '') +
					(Dsq.jsonData.context.use_twitter_signin ? 'or sign in with Twitter ' : '') +
					(Dsq.jsonData.context.use_openid ? 'or sign in using OpenID ' : '') +
					Dsq.Utils.interpolate('to comment on <strong>%(forum_name)s</strong>.</p>')) :
					''
				),
				'<div id="dsq-post-add"></div>',
				'<div style="margin:10px 0">',
				((Dsq.jsonData.forum.use_media) ?
						'<a href="#" id="dsq-media-link" onclick="Dsq.Post.showMenu(this, false, \'media\'); return false">' + Dsq.Strings.USE_MEDIA + ' <small>&#9660;</small></a>' :
						''),
				'</div>'
		]);
		return result.join('');
	};


	this.header = function() {

		var html = '\<h3 id="dsq-comments-count" class="dsq-h3-commentcount">\
	 <span id="dsq-num-posts">261</span> Comments\
	 &nbsp;\
	 <span class="dsq-item-feed">\
	 <a href="http://scobleizer.disqus.com/i_am_not_an_american/latest.rss"><img src="http://media.disqus.com/images/embed/bullet-feed.png"></a>\
	 </span>\
	 </h3>\
	 <div id="dsq-options" style="margin:15px 0">\
	 <span class="dsq-item-sort">\
	 Sort by\
	 <select id="dsq-sort-select" onchange="Dsq.Thread.sortBy(this.value);">\
	 <option value="hot" selected="selected">Popular now</option>\
	 <option value="best" >Best Rating</option>\
	 <option value="newest" >Newest first</option>\
	 <option value="oldest" >Oldest first</option>\
	 </select>\
	 &nbsp;\
	 </span>\
	 <span class="dsq-item-cp"><a href="http://scobleizer.disqus.com/i_am_not_an_american/">Community Page</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span>\
	 <span class="dsq-item-subscribe">\
	 <img src="http://media.disqus.com/images/embed/email.png" style="width:12px;height:12px;vertical-align:middle">\
	 <span id="dsq-subscribe">\
	 <a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Thread.subscribe(1); return false">Subscribe by email</a>\
	 </span>\
	 </span>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-alerts">\
	 <p>Comments for this page are closed.</p>\
	 </div>\
		';

		

		
		if (Dsq.jsonData.request.is_moderator) { 
			html = ' \
			<div class="dsq-alert-message dsq-upgrade-message"> \
				<strong>Disqus upgrade available.</strong> Hi ' + Dsq.jsonData.request.display_username + ', this message is being displayed to you because you are a moderator of this site. <a href="#" onclick="Dsq.$(\'dsq-upgrade-message\').style.display=\'block\';this.style.display=\'none\';return false">Click here for details.</a> \
				<div style="display:none; margin-top:10px;" id="dsq-upgrade-message"> \
					A new theme is available with added features. <a href="http://disqus.com/comments/settings/' + Dsq.jsonData.forum.url + '/?p=customize">To change your theme, click here</a> and choose the theme Narcissus. \
					If you do not upgrade, you are missing out on features such as: real-time commenting, new sign-in integrations, and an upgrade interface. \
					<strong>This message will automatically go away in one week.</strong> \
				</div> \
			</div> \
			' + html; 
		}
		return html;
	};

	this.footer = function() {
		var html = Dsq.Templates.pagination();

		
			html += Dsq.Templates.authPost();
		

		html += Dsq.Templates.reactions();

		
			html += Dsq.Templates.trackbacks();
		

		return html;
	};

	this.pagination = function() {
		var html = '';
		
		if (Dsq.$('dsq-pagination')) { Dsq.$('dsq-pagination').innerHTML = ''; }
		if (!Dsq.jsonData.thread.paginate) { return ''; }

		//
		// TODO: num_paginator still uses the template tag for pagination, 
		// 		while append_paginator does it all in JavaScript.
		//		This should all be in JavaScript.
		//

		if (Dsq.jsonData.thread.num_pages > 1 && Dsq.jsonData.request.page < Dsq.jsonData.thread.num_pages) {
			html = ' \<a class="dsq-paginate-append-text" href="#" onclick="Dsq.Thread.paginate(Dsq.jsonData.request.page + 1, this); return false">Show more comments...</a>\
	 <button type="button" class="dsq-button-small dsq-paginate-append-button" onclick="Dsq.Thread.paginate(Dsq.jsonData.request.page + 1, this);">Load more comments</button>\
			';
		}
		
		if (Dsq.$('dsq-pagination')) {
			Dsq.$('dsq-pagination').innerHTML = html;
			return '';
		} else {
			return '<div id="dsq-pagination" class="dsq-pagination">' + html + '</div>';
		}
	};

	this.trackbacks = function() {
		var html = '';

		if(typeof DsqLocal != 'undefined' && DsqLocal.trackback_url && DsqLocal.trackbacks) {
			var trackbacks = DsqLocal.trackbacks;
			var trackback_url = DsqLocal.trackback_url;
		} else {
			var trackbacks = [
			
			
			];
			var trackback_url = 'http://scobleizer.disqus.com/i_am_not_an_american/trackback/';
		}

		html += '<div class="dsq-item-trackback">Trackback URL&nbsp;&nbsp;<input class="dsq-trackback-url" onclick="this.select()" readonly="true" value="' + trackback_url + '"></div>';

		if(trackbacks.length) {
			html += '<ul id="dsq-references">'
			for(var i = 0; i < trackbacks.length; i++) {
				var trackback = trackbacks[i];
				html += '<li><cite><a href="' + trackback.author_url + '" rel="nofollow">' + trackback.author_name + '</a></cite> \
						<p class="dsq-meta">' + trackback.date + '</p> \
						<p class="dsq-content">' + trackback.excerpt + '</p></li>';
			}
			html += '</ul>';
			html = '<h3 class="dsq-h3-trackbacks">Trackbacks</h3>' + html;
		}

		return html;
	}

	this.showRetweets = function(id, limit, element_id /* Optional */) {
		var source, html = '';

		for (var i = 0, reaction; reaction = Dsq.jsonData.reactions[i]; i++) {
			if (reaction.id === id) {
				source = reaction.retweets;
			}
		}

		if (source) {
			if (limit === 0) {
				limit = source.length;
			}

			for (var j = 0; j < limit; j++) {
				var rt = source[j];
				html += '<a href="' + rt.url + '">' + rt.author_name + '</a>'	+ ((j === (limit - 1)) ? '.' : ', ');
			}
		}

		if (element_id === undefined) {
			return html;
		}

		var element = document.getElementById(element_id);
		element.innerHTML = html;
		return element;
	};

	this.showMoreReactions = function(reactions, has_more, start, limit) {
		var link = document.getElementById('dsq-show-more-reactions');
		var container = link.parentNode;
		container.removeChild(link);

		for (var i = 0, reaction; reaction = reactions[i]; i++) {
			var el = Dsq.Templates.generateReactionHTML(reaction);
			if (el) {
				container.innerHTML += el;
			}
		}

		if (has_more) {
			var d = Dsq.jsonData.settings.disqus_url;
			var f = Dsq.jsonData.forum.url;
			var t = Dsq.jsonData.thread.id;
			var s = start;
			var l = limit;

			var handler = 'Dsq.Utils.execScript(\'' + d + '/forums/' + f + '/more_reactions.js?t=' + t + '&s=' + s + '&l=' + l + '\', true); return false;';
			container.innerHTML += '<li id="dsq-show-more-reactions"><a href="#" onclick="' + handler + '">Show more reactions</a></li>';
		}
	};

	this.generateReactionHTML = function(reaction) {
		if (reaction.body === null || reaction.body == '') {
			return;
		}

		if (reaction.author_name === '') {
			reaction.author_name = '&nbsp;';
		}

		if (reaction.url === '') {
			reaction.url = reaction.get_service_url;
		}

		/* Reaction HTML begins */
		var item = '<li class="dsq-reaction" id="dsq-reaction-' + reaction.id + '">'
			+ '<div class="dsq-reaction-header">'
			+ '<div class="dsq-header-avatar">';

		if (reaction.author_url && reaction.author_url !== '') {
			item += '<a target="_blank" href="' + reaction.author_url +'">';
		} else {
			item += '<a target="_blank" href="#" onclick="return false;">';
		}

		if (reaction.avatar_url && reaction.avatar_url !== '') {
			item += '<img src="' + reaction.avatar_url + '"/>';
		} else {
			item += '<img src="' + Dsq.jsonData.media_url + '/images/noavatar32.png"/>';
		}

		var service_icon = (reaction.get_service_name == 'trackback' || reaction.get_service_name == 'pingback' ? 'rss' : reaction.get_service_name.replace(' ', ''));
		item += '<img class="dsq-service-icon" src="' + Dsq.jsonData.media_url + '/images/reactions/services/' + service_icon + '.png"/>'
			+ '</a></div>'
			+ '<cite><span>' + reaction.author_name + '</span></cite>'
			+ '<span class="dsq-header-meta"><a class="dsq-header-time">' + reaction.date_created + '</a></span>'
			+ '</div><div class="dsq-reaction-body">'
			+ '<div class="dsq-reaction-message">' + reaction.body + '</div>'
			+ '<div class="dsq-reaction-footer">From <a class="dsq-service-name" target="_blank" href="' + reaction.url + '">' + reaction.get_service_name + '</a> '
			+ 'via <a href="' + reaction.source_url + '">' + (reaction.source == 'backtype' ? 'BackType' : 'UberVU') + '</a>'
			+ (Dsq.jsonData.request.is_moderator || Dsq.jsonData.request.is_global_moderator ? '&nbsp;&bull;&nbsp;<a class="dsq-hide-reaction" href="#" onclick="Dsq.Reaction.hide(' + reaction.id + '); return false;">Hide</a>' : '') + '</div></div>';

		if(reaction.retweets) {
			var num_retweets = reaction.retweets.length;
			if (num_retweets > 0) {
				item += '<div class="dsq-reaction-retweets">';
				if (num_retweets == 1) {
					item += 'One more retweet from <a href="' + reaction.retweets[0].url + '">'  + reaction.retweets[0].author_name + '</a>';
				} else {
					item += (num_retweets + ' more retweets from ');

					item += '<span id="dsq-reaction-retweets-' + reaction.id + '">';
					var n_tweets = (num_retweets > 15) ? 15 : num_retweets;
					item += Dsq.Templates.showRetweets(reaction.id, n_tweets);

					if (n_tweets != num_retweets) {
						item += '</span> <a onclick="Dsq.Templates.showRetweets(' + reaction.id + ', 0, \'dsq-reaction-retweets-' + reaction.id + '\');'
							+ 'this.parentNode.removeChild(this); return false;" href="#">Show all</a>';
					}
				}
				item += '</div>';
			}
		}

		item += '</li>'; /* Reaction HTML ends */
		return item;
	};

	this.reactions = function() {
		var html, reaction;

		if (Dsq.jsonData.reactions === undefined || Dsq.jsonData.reactions.length === 0) {
			return '';
		}

		html = '';
		for (var i = 0; reaction = Dsq.jsonData.reactions[i]; i++) {
			var item = Dsq.Templates.generateReactionHTML(reaction);
			if (item) {
				html += item;
			}
		}

		if (Dsq.jsonData.has_more_reactions) {
			var d = Dsq.jsonData.settings.disqus_url;
			var f = Dsq.jsonData.forum.url;
			var t = Dsq.jsonData.thread.id;
			var s = Dsq.jsonData.reactions_start;
			var l = Dsq.jsonData.reactions_limit;

			var handler = 'Dsq.Utils.execScript(\'' + d + '/forums/' + f + '/more_reactions.js?t=' + t + '&s=' + s + '&l=' + l + '\', true); return false;';
			html += '<li id="dsq-show-more-reactions"><a href="#" onclick="' + handler + '">Show more reactions</a></li>';
		}

		return '<h3 class="dsq-h3-reactions">Reactions</h3><ul id="dsq-reactions" class="dsq-reactions">' + html + '</ul>';
	};
	
	this.missingPermissions = function() {
		return '	<p>Comments for this page are closed.</p>\n';
	};

	//
	// Post
	//

	this.prependPost = function(post_id) {
		var html = '<div id="comment-' + post_id + '"></div>';
		return html;
	};

	this.appendPost = function(post_id) {
		var html = '<div id="dsq-comment-reply-' + post_id + '"></div>';
		return html;
	};

	this.postPrependHeader = function(post_id) {
		var _meta = Dsq.jsonData.posts[post_id];
		var userData = Dsq.jsonData['users'][_meta.user_key];

		var _includeServices = function() {
			var userServices = Dsq.Post.getUserServices(null, post_id);
			var html = '';
			var hiddenThreshold = 3; // Define # of services to show before stuffing them in hidden div

			for(var i = 0; i < userServices.length; i++) {
				html +=
				(i == hiddenThreshold
					? '<li id="dsq-drop-hidden-' + post_id +'" class="dsq-drop-hidden"><ul>'
					: '')
				+ '<li class="dsq-drop-services"> \
					<a class="dsq-service-' + userServices[i].name.toLowerCase() + '" href="' + userServices[i].url + '" target="_blank"> \
						<img src="' + Dsq.jsonData.media_url + '/images/embed/services/' + userServices[i].name.toLowerCase() + '.png" alt="' + userServices[i].name.toLowerCase() + '">'
					+ userServices[i].name
					+ '</a> \
				</li>';
			}

			if(i >= hiddenThreshold) {
				html += '</ul></li> \
				<li id="dsq-drop-more-' + post_id + '" class="dsq-drop-more"><a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Post.dropProfileMore(this, '+ post_id + '); return false"><small>&#9660;</small></a></li> \
				';
			}
			return html;
		};

		return ' \
			<div class="dsq-header-avatar" id="dsq-header-avatar-' + post_id + '" onmouseover="Dsq.Post.dropProfile(' + post_id + ')"> \
				<a id="dsq-avatar-' + post_id + '" class="dsq-avatar" href="' + userData.url + '" onclick="Dsq.Popup.popProfile(' + post_id + '); return false;">'
			+ (Dsq.jsonData.forum.show_avatar
				? '<img src="' + Dsq.jsonData.users[_meta.user_key].avatar + '" alt="" />'
				: '')
			+ '</a>'
			+ '</div> \
		';
	};

	this.postAppendHeader = function(post_id) {
		var _meta = Dsq.jsonData.posts[post_id];

		return ''
			+ (_meta.author_is_moderator
				? '<img class="dsq-mod-star" src="http://media.disqus.com/images/bullet-star.png" title="Moderator" alt="" />'
				: '')
			+ '<span class="dsq-header-meta"> \
				<a id="dsq-time-' + post_id + '" class="dsq-header-time" href="#comment-' + post_id + '" title="Permalink">' + _meta.date + '</a> \
			</span>';
	};

	this.preBody = function(post_id) {
		return '';
	}

	this.postBody = function(post_id) {
		// TODO: Deprecate flagging conditional
		var _meta = Dsq.jsonData.posts[post_id];
		return ''
			+ (_meta.edited
				? '<p class="dsq-editedtxt">(Edited by a moderator)</p>'
				: '')
			;
	};

	this.postFooter = function(post_id) {
		// TODO: Use media should be conditional
		var _meta = Dsq.jsonData.posts[post_id];
		if(_meta.killed) { return ''; }

		return ' \
			<div class="dsq-comment-footer" id="dsq-comment-footer-' + post_id + '"> \
				<div id="dsq-points-' + post_id + '" class="dsq-likedtxt">'
				+ (_meta.points
					? _meta.points + Dsq.Utils.pluralize(_meta.points, ' person', ' people') + ' liked this comment.'
					: '')
				+ '</div>'
				+ '<ul class="dsq-comment-options dsq-list-style">'
				+ (_meta.votable
					? '<li class="dsq-list-first dsq-rate" id="dsq-rate-cont-' + post_id + '">'
					+ (!_meta.up_voted
						? '<a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Post.rate(this, ' + post_id + ', 1); return false;">Like</a>'
						: 'You liked this.') + '</li>'
					: '')
				+ '<li class="dsq-report' + (!_meta.votable ? ' dsq-list-first' : '') + '" id="dsq-post-report-' + post_id + '"><a href="#" class="dsq-post-report" onclick="Dsq.Post.report(' + post_id + ', false); return false;">Report</a></li> \
				</ul> \
				<ul class="dsq-list-style">'
				+ (_meta.can_reply
					? '<li class="dsq-list-first"><a href="#" id="dsq-reply-link-' + post_id +'" onclick="Dsq.Post.toggleReply(this, ' + post_id +'); return false;">Reply</a></li>'
					: '')
				+ (_meta.can_reply && !_meta.has_replies && _meta.from_request_user
					? '<li id="dsq-edit-el-' + post_id + '"><a id="dsq-edit-link-' + post_id + '" href="#" onclick="Dsq.Post.edit(this, ' + post_id + '); return false;">Edit</a></li>'
					: '')
				+ '<li class="' + (!_meta.can_reply ? 'dsq-list-first' : '') + '" id="dsq-more-el-' + post_id + '"><a id="dsq-more-link-' + post_id + '" href="#" onclick="Dsq.Post.showMenu(this, ' + post_id + ', \'more\'); return false">More <small>&#9660;</small></a></li>'
				+ (Dsq.jsonData.forum.use_media
					? '<li id="dsq-media-el-' + post_id +'" style="display:none"><a id="dsq-media-link-' + post_id + '" href="#" onclick="Dsq.Post.showMenu(this, ' + post_id + ', \'media\'); return false">Use Media <small>&#9660;</small></a></li>'
					: '')
				+ '</ul>'
				+ '<div id="dsq-reply-bar-' + post_id + '" class="dsq-reply-bar" style="display:none"> \
						<div id="dsq-reply-bar-items-' + post_id + '" class="dsq-reply-bar-items"> \
						</div> \
						<div id="dsq-reply-bar-auth-' + post_id + '" class="dsq-reply-bar-auth"> \
							 \
								 \
								 	<a href="#" class="dsq-help dsq-reply-req-opt" title="You are commenting as a Guest. You may choose to log into an existing DISQUS Profile, your Facebook, Twitter or OpenID account to comment on Scobleizer" onclick="Dsq.Popup.helpBadges(); return false">Optional:</a> \
								 \
								<img class="dsq-login-icon" src="http://media.disqus.com/images/dsq-favicon-16x16.png" alt="" /> \
								<a id="dsq-reply-login-' + post_id + '" href="http://disqus.com/profile/login/?next=article:18356296" onclick="Dsq.Popup.login(); return false">Login</a> \
								 \
									&nbsp;or&nbsp; \
									<img class="fb_login_image" src="http://static.ak.fbcdn.net/images/fbconnect/login-buttons/connect_light_small_short.gif" alt="Facebook Connect"/> \
									<a href="#" onclick="FB.Connect.requireSession(DisqusFbcParentController.onLogin); return false;">Connect</a> \
								 \
								&nbsp;or&nbsp; \
									<img src="http://media.disqus.com/images/twitter-signin-icon.png" alt="" /> \
									<a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Twitter.startTwitterConnect(); return false">Sign-in</a> \
								 \
								 \
							 \
						</div> \
					</div> \
					<div id="dsq-reply-' + post_id + '"></div> \
			</div> \
		';
	};

	//
	// Iframes
	//

	this._makeAttributes = function(attributes) {
		// Makes a tag attributes string out of an object.
		// Caller is responsible for making sure nothing needs to be escaped.
		var result = [];
		for (key in attributes) {
			result.push(' ' + key + '="' + attributes[key] + '"');
		}
		result = result.join('');
		return result;
	};

	this._frameGeneric = function(base_url, params, attributes) {
		if(typeof(disqus_callback_params) == 'undefined') {
			disqus_callback_params = '';
		}

		var default_params = {
			// TODO: These should be moved to Dsq.jsonData.
			'f'				: 'scobleizer',
			't'				: 'i_am_not_an_american',
			// Do we need encodeURIComponent here?
			'ifrs'			: encodeURIComponent(disqus_iframe_css),
			'to_redirect'	: encodeURIComponent(window.location),
			'cbp'			: disqus_callback_params,
			'ff'			: Dsq.Thread.ff,
			'fc'			: Dsq.Thread.fc,
			'ac'			: Dsq.Thread.ac,
			'default_text'	: disqus_default_text
		};

		base_url += '?' + (new Date()).getTime();
		// Add params to default_params.
		if(params) {
			for(var key in params) {
				if(params.hasOwnProperty(key)) {
					default_params[key] = encodeURIComponent(params[key]);
				}
			}
		}
		// Build querystring.
		for(var key in default_params) {
			if(default_params[key] && default_params.hasOwnProperty(key)) {
				base_url += '&' + key + '=' + default_params[key];
			}
		}

		return [
			'<iframe marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" hspace="0" vspace="0" frameborder="0"',
			(' allowtransparency="true" src="' + base_url + '"'),
			this._makeAttributes(attributes),
			'</iframe>'].join('');
	};

	this.frameLogin = function(opt_attributes) {
		var params = {};
		var base_url = 'http://disqus.com/embed/login.html';
		var attributes = opt_attributes || {};
		attributes['class'] = 'dsq-post-login';

		if(typeof disqus_frame_theme != 'undefined') {
			params['theme'] = disqus_frame_theme;
		}
		return this._frameGeneric(base_url, params, attributes);
	};

	this.frameReply = function(post_id, extra_params, attributes) {
		// Returns the HTML for a reply iframe. Called by Dsq.Iframes.setReplyIframeToContainer
		var _meta = (typeof post_id != 'undefined') ? Dsq.jsonData.posts[post_id] : false;
		var base_url = Dsq.Urls.REPLY;
		var params = {
			'def_email'		: disqus_def_email,
			'def_name'		: disqus_def_name
		};
		if(extra_params) {
			for(var key in extra_params) {
				if(extra_params.hasOwnProperty(key)) {
					params[key] = extra_params[key];
				}
			}
		}
		if(_meta) {
			params['parent_post'] = post_id;
		}
		if(typeof disqus_per_page != 'undefined') {
			params['per_page'] = disqus_per_page;
		}
		if(typeof disqus_frame_theme != 'undefined') {
			params['theme'] = disqus_frame_theme;
		}
		if(Dsq.jsonData.request.is_authenticated) {
			attributes['class'] += '-authenticated';
		}
		return this._frameGeneric(base_url, params, attributes);
	};

	this.frameEdit = function(post_id) {
		var _meta = (typeof post_id != 'undefined') ? Dsq.jsonData.posts[post_id] : false;
		var base_url = 'http://disqus.com/embed/edit.html';
		var params = {
			'p' : post_id
		};
		return this._frameGeneric(base_url, params, {'class': 'dsq-post-edit', 'name': 'dsq-edit_' + post_id + '-frame'});
	};

	//
	// Menus
	//

	this.menuMore = function(post_id) {
		// TODO: "Remove post" button should hide menu.
		var _meta = Dsq.jsonData.posts[post_id];
		var userData = Dsq.jsonData['users'][_meta.user_key];
		return ' \
			<li><a href="#comment-' + post_id + '" onclick="Dsq.Popup.permalink(' + post_id + ')">Link</a></li> \
			<li><a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Popup.popProfile(' + post_id + '); return false;">Profile</a></li>'
	+ (Dsq.jsonData.request.is_moderator || Dsq.jsonData.request.is_global_moderator
		? '	<li class="dsq-menu-sep"></li>' + (_meta.email ? '<li class="dsq-admin-email">' + _meta.email + '</li>' : '')
		+ '	<li class="dsq-admin-ip">' + _meta.ip + '</li> \
			<li class="dsq-menu-sep"></li>'
		+ (Dsq.jsonData.request.moderator_can_edit
			? ' <li class="dsq-admin-edit"><a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Post.edit(this, ' + post_id + '); return false;">Edit Comment</a></li>'
			: '')
		+ ' <li class="dsq-remove"><a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Post.removePost(' + post_id + ', 1); return false;">Remove Comment</a></li> \
			<li class="dsq-report-spam"><a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Post.reportSpam(' + post_id + '); return false;">Mark Spam</a></li> \
			<li class="dsq-block-user"><a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Popup.blacklist(' + post_id + '); return false">Block User</a></li>'
		: '');
	};

	this.menuMedia = function(post_id) {
		return ' \
			<li><a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Post.toggleMediaReply(this, ' + post_id + ', \'seesmic\'); return false;">Record video</a></li> \
		';
	};

	this.dropProfile = function(post_id) {
		var _meta = Dsq.jsonData.posts[post_id];
		var userData = Dsq.jsonData['users'][_meta.user_key];

		var _includeServices = function() {
			var userServices = Dsq.Post.getUserServices(null, post_id);
			var html = '';
			var hiddenThreshold = 3; // Define # of services to show before stuffing them in hidden div

			for(var i = 0; i < userServices.length; i++) {
				html +=
				(i == hiddenThreshold
					? '<li id="dsq-drop-hidden-' + post_id +'" class="dsq-drop-hidden"><ul>'
					: '')
				+ '<li class="dsq-drop-services"> \
					<a class="dsq-service-' + userServices[i].name.toLowerCase() + '" href="' + userServices[i].url + '" target="_blank"> \
						<img src="' + Dsq.jsonData.media_url + '/images/embed/services/' + userServices[i].name.toLowerCase() + '.png" alt="' + userServices[i].name.toLowerCase() + '">'
					+ userServices[i].name
					+ '</a> \
				</li>';
			}

			if(i >= hiddenThreshold) {
				html += '</ul></li> \
				<li id="dsq-drop-more-' + post_id + '" class="dsq-drop-more"><a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Post.dropProfileMore(this, '+ post_id + '); return false"><small>&#9660;</small></a></li> \
				';
			}
			return html;
		};


		var menu = '<li class="dsq-drop-showlnk"><a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Popup.popProfile(' + post_id + '); return false;">Expand &#8663;</a></li>';
		var pointsMessage = '';
		if (userData['registered']) {
			pointsMessage = 'with ' + userData['points'] + ' points (more points are better).';
		}

		if (userData['is_remote']) {
			var domain = userData['remote_domain_name'];
			menu += '<li class="dsq-drop-badge" title="' + userData['display_name'] + ' is a ' + domain + ' user ' + pointsMessage + '" onclick="Dsq.Popup.helpBadges()">';
			menu += '<span class="dsq-badge-' + domain.toLowerCase() + '">' + domain + '</span></li>';
		} else if (userData['registered']) {
			if (userData['verified']) {
				menu += '<li class="dsq-drop-badge" title="' + userData['display_name'] + ' has a verified commenter profile ' + pointsMessage + '" onclick="Dsq.Popup.helpBadges()">';
				menu += '<span class="dsq-badge-verified">Verified</span></li>';
			} else {
				menu += '<li class="dsq-drop-badge" title="' + userData['display_name'] + ' has a registered, but unverified, commenter profile ' + pointsMessage + '" onclick="Dsq.Popup.helpBadges()">';
				menu += '<span class="dsq-badge-registered">Registered</span></li>';
			}
		} else {
			menu += '<li class="dsq-drop-badge" title="' + userData['display_name'] + ' has not claimed this commenter profile." onclick="Dsq.Popup.helpBadges()"><span class="dsq-badge-guest">Guest</span></li>';
		}

		menu += _includeServices();
		return menu;
	};

	//
	// Popups
	//

	this._popupGeneric = function(content) {
		return ' \
		<div class="dsq-popup-content"> \
			<div class="dsq-popup-top"></div> \
			<div class="dsq-popup-body" class="clearfix"> \
				<div class="dsq-popup-body-padding"> \
					<div class="dsq-popup-header"> \
						<a class="dsq-close-link" href="#" onclick="Dsq.Popup._closePopup(null, true); return false"><img src="http://media.disqus.com/images/modal-close.png" alt="" /></a>'
						+ content['header']
					+ '</div>'
					+ content['body']
					+ '<div class="powered-by"><a href="http://disqus.com/comments/">Powered by <img src="http://media.disqus.com/images/embed/disqus-logo.png" alt="Disqus Comments" style="margin-bottom:-5px" /></a></div> \
				</div> <!-- padding --> \
			</div> <!-- body --> \
			<div class="dsq-popup-bottom"></div> \
		</div> \
		';
	};

	this.popupProfile = function(user_key) {
		var userServices = Dsq.Post.getUserServices(user_key, null);
		var userData = Dsq.jsonData['users'][user_key];
		var headerHtml = '';
		var bodyHtml = '';
		var content = {};

		var _includeServices = function() {
			var html = '';
			for(var i = 0; i < userServices.length; i++) {
				html +=
				(i == 0
					? '<h4>Connections</h4><ul>'
					: '')
				+ '<li> \
					<img src="' + Dsq.jsonData.media_url + '/images/embed/services/' + userServices[i].name.toLowerCase() + '.png" alt="' + userServices[i].name.toLowerCase() + '" title="' + userServices[i].name.toLowerCase() + '" /> \
					<a class="dsq-service-' + userServices[i].name.toLowerCase() + '" href="' + userServices[i].url + '" target="_blank">'
					+ userServices[i].name
					+ '</a> \
				</li>'
				+ (i+1 == userServices.length ? '</ul>' : '');
			}
			return html;
		};

		headerHtml = ' \
			<table> \
				<tr> \
					<td> \
						<a class="dsq-profile-userurl" href="' + userData.url + '"><img class="dsq-popup-profile-avatar" src="' + userData['avatar'] + '" alt="" /></a> \
					</td> \
					<td> \
						<div class="dsq-popup-profile-user"> \
							<h3>' + userData['display_name'] + '</h3> \
							<div class="dsq-popup-profile-user-stats" id="dsq-popup-profile-user-stats-' + user_key + '">Loading...</div> \
						</div> \
					</td> \
				</tr> \
			</table> \
		';

		bodyHtml = ' \
			<div class="dsq-popup-profile-state"> \
				This is a&nbsp;<span class="'
					+ (userData['registered']
						? (userData['verified']
							? ' dsq-badge-verified'
							: (userData['is_remote']
								? ' dsq-badge-' + userData['remote_domain_name'].toLowerCase()
								: ' dsq-badge-registered')
							)
							: ' dsq-badge-guest') + '">'
			+ (userData['registered']
				? (userData['verified']
					? 'Verified'
					: (userData['is_remote']
						 ? userData['remote_domain_name']
						 : 'Registered')
					)
				: 'Guest')
			+ '</span>&nbsp;commenter profile.'
			+ '&nbsp;<a class="dsq-profile-userurl" href="' + userData.url + '"><strong>View more comments </strong></a>'
			+ (!userData['points']
				? '<p class="dsq-popup-notice">If this is you, <a href="http://disqus.com/profile" target="_blank">claim it now</a> to manage your comments.</p>'
				: '')
			+ ((userData['registered'] && !userData['verified'] && (Dsq.jsonData.request.username && (Dsq.jsonData.request.username == userData['username'])) && !userData['is_remote'])
				? '<p class="dsq-popup-notice"><strong>Alert</strong>: You have not verified this account. <a href="http://disqus.com/verify">Verify it now.</a></p>'
				: '')
			+ '</div> \
			<div id="dsq-profile-status-' + user_key + '" class="dsq-popup-profile-status" style="display:none"></div> \
			<div class="dsq-popup-profile-snapshot"> \
				<table> \
					<tr> \
						<td> \
							<div id="dsq-popup-profile-active-sites-wrapper-' + user_key + '"> \
								<h4>Most active sites</h4> \
								<ul id="dsq-popup-profile-active-sites-' + user_key + '"> \
									<li>Loading...</li> \
								</ul> \
							</div> \
						</td> \
						<td>'
							+ _includeServices()
							+ '<div id="dsq-popup-profile-moderated-wrapper-' + user_key + '"> \
								<h4>Moderator of</h4> \
								<ul id="dsq-popup-profile-moderated-' + user_key + '"> \
									<li>Loading...</li> \
								</ul> \
							</div> \
						</td> \
					</tr> \
				</table> \
			</div> \
			';

		content = {
			'header': headerHtml,
			'body': bodyHtml
		};

		return this._popupGeneric(content);
	};

	this.popupReblog = function() {
		var headerHtml = '';
		var bodyHtml = '';
		var content = {};

		headerHtml = ' \
			<cite><span>Reblog this comment</span></cite> \
		';

		bodyHtml = ' \
			<div id="dsq-reblog-form" class="dsq-reblog-form"> \
			</div> \
		';

		content = {
			'header': headerHtml,
			'body': bodyHtml
		};

		return this._popupGeneric(content);
	};

	this.popupModal = function(title, message) {
		var headerHtml = '';
		var bodyHtml = '';
		var content = {};

		headerHtml = ' \
			<h3>' + title + '</h3> \
		';

		bodyHtml = message;

		content = {
			'header': headerHtml,
			'body': bodyHtml
		};

		return this._popupGeneric(content);
	};

	this.alertContent = function(name, post_id) {
		var alert = {
			'post_not_approved': {
				'title': 'Comment awaiting approval by a moderator',
				'message': 'Thanks for posting. Your comment must be approved by a moderator before appearing here.'
			},
			'post_has_profile': {
				'title': 'Use your existing commenter profile',
				'message': 'You have just posted your commment as a <span class="dsq-badge dsq-badge-guest">Guest</span>, but you may already have a <span class="dsq-badge dsq-badge-registered">Registered</span> commenter profile.<br /><br /><a href="http://disqus.com/claim">Log in and claim this comment!</a>'
			}
		};
		return alert[name] || false;
	};

	//
	// Actions
	//

	this.voted = function(post_id, points, vote) {
		// Update number of points
		Dsq.$('dsq-points-' + post_id).innerHTML = points + Dsq.Utils.pluralize(points, ' person', ' people') + ' liked this comment.';

		// Update link text
		if(vote) {
			Dsq.$('dsq-rate-cont-' + post_id).innerHTML = 'You liked this.';
		}
	};

	this.subscribed = function(status) {
		var title, message;

		if(status) {
			title = 'Subscribed!';
			message = 'You have subscribed to this comment thread. New comments will be sent directly to your email inbox, where you may read and respond by email.';
			Dsq.$('dsq-subscribe').innerHTML = ' \
				<a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Thread.subscribe(0); return false">Unsubscribe</a> \
			';
		} else {
			title = 'Unsubscribed';
			message = 'You have unsubscribed to this comment thread. New comments will no longer be sent to your email inbox.';
			Dsq.$('dsq-subscribe').innerHTML = ' \
				<a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Thread.subscribe(1); return false">Subscribe by email</a> \
			';
		}

		Dsq.Popup.popModal(message, title);

	};
	
	this.highlighted = function() {
		Dsq.Popup.popModal('This comment has been highlighted.', 'Highlighted comment');
	};

	//
	// Media
	//

	this.mediaSeesmic = function(id, thumb) {
		return ' \
			<div id="dsq-seesmic-' + id + '_preview" class="dsq-seesmic-preview"><a href="http://www.seesmic.com/video/' + id + '" target="_blank" class="see_link">&nbsp;</a> \
				<div style="display:block;width:160px; height:120px; border:none; background-image:url(http://t.seesmic.com/thumbnail/' + thumb + ')"> \
					<div id="dsq-seesmic-' + id + '_hide" class="seePlayOverlay" style="display:none;"><img onclick="see_play_video(\'' + id + '\',false)" src="http://media.disqus.com/images/seesmic/stopOverlay.png" width="50" height="50" style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand; padding-top: 30px; padding-left: 50px" alt="" /></div> \
					<div id="dsq-seesmic-' + id + '_show" class="seePlayOverlay"><img onclick="see_play_video(\'' + id + '\',true)" src="http://media.disqus.com/images/seesmic/playOverlay.png" width="50" height="50" style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand; border:none; padding-top: 30px; padding-left: 50px" alt="" /></div> \
				</div> \
			</div> \
			<div id="' + id + '_content" style="display:block; width:100%; padding-top:5px"></div> \
		';
	};

	//
	// Callbacks
	//

	this.postComment_onSuccess = function(parent_post_id) {
		// Increment post count
		var num_posts = Dsq.$('dsq-num-posts');
		var total_posts = Dsq.$('dsq-total-posts');
		
		if (num_posts) { 
			num_posts.innerHTML = parseInt(num_posts.innerHTML) + 1;
		}
		if (total_posts) { 
			total_posts.innerHTML = parseInt(total_posts.innerHTML) + 1;
		}
	};
};
// Dsq.Templates


/**
 * Dsq.Post
 */
Dsq.Post = new function() {
	this.openedMenu = {};
	this.menuEventListener = null;
	this.stateReplyToggled = {};
	this.stateEditToggled = {};
	this.stateRecordLink = {};

	/**
	 * Inserts a new post into the document.
	 *
	 * @param after_id {Number}	Insert a post before specified id.  If after_id
	 *							evaluates to false, then post in the front.  If
	 *							after_id is -1, post at the end.
	 */
	this.insert = function(after_id, id, message, author) {
		// Skeleton template from thread_posts.html.
		var skeleton = ' \
			<li id="dsq-comment-%(id)s"> \
				<div id="dsq-comment-header-%(id)s" class="dsq-comment-header"> \
					<cite id="dsq-cite-%(id)s" class="dsq-comment-cite"> \
						<a id="dsq-author-user-%(id)s" href="%(author_url)s" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">%(author_name)s</a> \
					</cite> \
				</div> \
				<div id="dsq-comment-body-%(id)s" class="dsq-comment-body"> \
					<div id="dsq-comment-message-%(id)s" class="dsq-comment-message">%(message)s</div> \
				</div> \
			</li> \
		';
		var _meta = Dsq.jsonData.posts[id];
		var _user_meta = Dsq.jsonData.users[_meta.user_key];
		var markup = Dsq.Utils.interpolate(skeleton, {
			id: id,
			message: message,
			author_url: _user_meta.blog,
			author_name: _user_meta.display_name
		});
		var div = document.createElement('div');
		markup = markup.replace(Dsq.COMMENTS_RE, Dsq.CommentsHandler);
		div.innerHTML = markup;

		if (after_id === -1) {
			Dsq.$('dsq-comments').appendChild(div);
		} else if (!after_id) {
			Dsq.$('dsq-comments').insertBefore(div, Dsq.$('dsq-comments').firstChild);
		} else if (Dsq.$('dsq-comment-' + after_id)) {
			// Get next node after "after_id", so we can insert before it.
			// If "after_id" is the last comment, the target node is the
			// last node.
			
			// var append_post_id = Dsq.Templates.appendPost(after_id).replace('<div id="','').replace('"></div>', '');
			var append_post_id = 'dsq-append-post-' + after_id;
			var node = Dsq.$(append_post_id);
			while (node = node.nextSibling) {
				if (!node || node.nodeType == 1) { // 1 == Node.ELEMENT_NODE
					break;
				}
			}
			if (!node) {
				node = Dsq.$(append_post_id);
			}
			node.parentNode.insertBefore(div, node);
		}
	};

	this.incrementPostCount = function() {
		
		var num_posts = Dsq.$('dsq-num-posts');
		var total_posts = Dsq.$('dsq-total-posts');

		if (num_posts) {
			num_posts.innerHTML = parseInt(num_posts.innerHTML, 10) + 1;
		}
		if (total_posts) {
			total_posts.innerHTML = parseInt(total_posts.innerHTML, 10) + 1;
		}
	}
	
	this.outlineComment = function(post_id) {
		Dsq.$('dsq-comment-' + post_id).className += ' dsq-comment-outline';
		setTimeout("(function () { Dsq.Post.clearOutlineComment(" + post_id + ") })()", 3000);
	};
	
	this.clearOutlineComment = function(post_id) {
		Dsq.$('dsq-comment-' + post_id).className = Dsq.$('dsq-comment-' + post_id).className.replace('dsq-comment-outline', '');
	};

	this.showMenu = function(el, id, name) {
		var anchorPos = Dsq.Utils.findPos(el);
		var menu = document.createElement('ul');

		if(this.openedMenu) {
			if(this.openedMenu.linkClicked) {
				this.openedMenu.linkClicked = false;
				return;
			}
		}

		switch(name) {
			case 'more':
				menu.innerHTML = Dsq.Templates.menuMore(id);
				break;
			case 'media':
				menu.innerHTML = Dsq.Templates.menuMedia(id);
				break;
			default:
				break;
		}

		// Add menu to document body
		menu.id = 'dsq-menu-' + id;
		menu.className = 'dsq-menu';
		Dsq.$b.appendChild(menu);

		// Position and show
		anchorPos[1] += 15;
		menu.style.left = anchorPos[0] + 'px';
		menu.style.top = anchorPos[1] + 'px';
		menu.style.display = 'block';

		// Set global reference
		this.openedMenu = {
			'el' : menu,
			'id' : id,
			'name' : name,
			'linkClicked' : false
		};

		// Set listener
		this.menuEventListener = Dsq.Utils.addEventListener(document, 'mouseup', this._hideMenu);
	};

	this._hideMenu = function(e) {
		var el = e.target || e.srcElement;
		var openedMenu = Dsq.Post.openedMenu.el;
		var id = Dsq.Post.openedMenu.id;

		if(!id) {
			var link = 'dsq-' + Dsq.Post.openedMenu.name + '-link';
		} else {
			var link = 'dsq-' + Dsq.Post.openedMenu.name + '-link-' + id;
		}

		if(!openedMenu) {
			return;
		}

		if(!Dsq.Popup.isClicked(e, openedMenu.id)) {
			openedMenu.style.display = 'none';
			Dsq.Utils.removeEventListener(Dsq.Post.menuEventListener);
			Dsq.Utils.deleteNode(openedMenu);

		} else {
			// Hide the menu if a link was clicked inside the menu.  We can't
			// completely remove the menu until the onclick event on the link
			// fires, but the menuEventListener will prevent multiple menus
			// from polluting the DOM.
			if(el && typeof el.href != 'undefined') {
				openedMenu.style.display = 'none';
				Dsq.Post.openedMenu.el = null;
			}
		}

		if(Dsq.Popup.isClicked(e, link)) {
 			Dsq.Post.openedMenu.linkClicked = true;
		}
	};


	this.getUserServices = function(user_key, id) {
		if(!user_key && id) {
			var _meta = Dsq.jsonData.posts[id];
			user_key = _meta.user_key;
		}
		var userData = Dsq.jsonData['users'][user_key];
		var userServices = [];

		// Keep a full list of supported services. This is the order they will display in the drop-profile.
		// Each service must have a corresponding case in _buildServiceUrl()
		var supportedServices = ['blog', 'twitter', 'facebook', 'tumblr'];

		function _buildServiceUrl(serviceName) {
			var data = userData[serviceName];
			var services = {
				blog:		function(d) { return d; },
				twitter:	function(d) { return d; },
				facebook:	function(d) { return d; },
				tumblr:		function(d) { return 'http://' + d + '.tumblr.com'; }
			};
			return services[serviceName](data);
		}

		for(var i = 0; i < supportedServices.length; i++) {
			if(userData[supportedServices[i]]) {
				var serviceUrl = _buildServiceUrl(supportedServices[i]);
				userServices.push({'name' : supportedServices[i], 'url' : serviceUrl});
			}
		}
		return userServices;
	}

	this.dropProfile = function(id) {
		var dp = Dsq.$('dsq-drop-profile-' + id);

		// IE6 needs JS to display/hide. All other browsers use CSS.
		if(dp) {
			if(Dsq.Utils.ie6) dp.style.display = (dp.style.display == 'inline') ? 'none' : 'inline';
			return false;
		} else {
			dp = document.createElement('ul');
		}

		dp.id = 'dsq-drop-profile-' + id;
		dp.className = 'dsq-drop-profile';

		if(Dsq.Utils.ie6) { dp.style.display = 'inline'; }

		var container = Dsq.$('dsq-header-avatar-' + id);
		dp.innerHTML = Dsq.Templates.dropProfile(id);
		container.appendChild(dp);
	};

	this.dropProfileMore = function(el, id) {
		var hiddenItems = Dsq.$('dsq-drop-hidden-' + id);

		hiddenItems.style.display = 'inline';
		el.parentNode.style.display = 'none';
	};

	this._updateReplyLinks = function(el, id) {
		// Update "reply / cancel" links based on state.
		var displayDict = {};

		if(id) {
			if(this.stateReplyToggled[id]) {
				el.innerHTML = 'Cancel';
				displayDict['media'] = 'inline';
				displayDict['edit'] = 'none';
			} else {
				el.innerHTML = 'Reply';
				displayDict['media'] = 'none';
				displayDict['edit'] = 'inline';
			}
		}

		for(var key in displayDict) {
			if(displayDict.hasOwnProperty(key)) {
				var	linkEl = Dsq.$('dsq-' + key + '-el-' + id),
					spacer = Dsq.$('dsq-' + key + '-spacer-' + id);

				if(linkEl) {
					linkEl.style.display = displayDict[key];
					if(spacer) spacer.style.display = displayDict[key];
				}
			}
		}
	};

	this._updateMediaLinks = function(el, id) {
		// Update "use media / cancel" links based on state.
		var appendId = (id) ? ('-' + id) : '';
		var link = Dsq.$('dsq-media-link' + appendId);

		if(this.stateRecordLink[id]) {
			link.innerHTML = 'Cancel Media';
			link.onclick = function() { Dsq.Post.toggleMediaReply(link, id); return false; };
		} else {
			link.innerHTML = 'Use Media <small>&#9660;</small>';
			link.onclick = function() { Dsq.Post.showMenu(link, id, 'media'); return false; };
		}
	};

	this.toggleReply = function(el, id) {
		// Create reply IFrame
		if (window.disqus_use_postmessage) {
			if (!this.stateReplyToggled[id]) {
				Dsq.$('dsq-reply-' + id).style.display = 'block';
				Dsq.$('dsq-reply-bar-' + id).style.display = 'block';
				// Create IFrame if it doesn't exist.
				if (!Dsq.frames['reply_' + id]) {
					var _meta = Dsq.jsonData.posts[id];
					Dsq.frames['reply_' + id] = new Dsq.ReplyFrame(Dsq.$('dsq-reply-frame-' + id), id);
					Dsq.frames['reply_' + id].init();
					Dsq.frames['reply_' + id].setState(id, _meta.depth);
				}
			} else {
				Dsq.$('dsq-reply-' + id).style.display = 'none';
				Dsq.$('dsq-reply-bar-' + id).style.display = 'none';
			}
		} else {
			// DEPRECATED
			if(!this.stateReplyToggled[id]) {
				// Reply toolbar
				Dsq.$('dsq-reply-bar-' + id).style.display = 'block';
				Dsq.Iframes.showReplyIframeInContainerIfAllowed(Dsq.$('dsq-reply-' + id), id);
			} else {
				Dsq.$('dsq-reply-bar-' + id).style.display = 'none';
				Dsq.Iframes.hideAllInContainer(Dsq.$('dsq-reply-' + id));
				if(this.stateRecordLink[id]) {
					// HACK: Cancel media before canceling self.
					this.toggleMediaReply(Dsq.$('dsq-media-link-' + id), id);
				}
			}
		}

		this.stateReplyToggled[id] = !this.stateReplyToggled[id];
		this._updateReplyLinks(el, id);

		if(Dsq.Utils.ie) { Dsq.Utils.fixIframesIE('dsq-reply-' + id); }

		Dsq.Events.fire(Dsq.Events.REPLY_IFRAME_TOGGLED, {
			postId: id,
			opened: this.stateReplyToggled[id]
		});
	};

	this.toggleMediaReply = function(el, id, xtype) {
		id = id || 0;
		if(id) {
			var container = Dsq.$('dsq-reply-' + id);
		} else {
			var container = Dsq.$('dsq-post-add');
		}

		if(!this.stateRecordLink[id]) {
			Dsq.Iframes.showReplyIframeInContainer(container, id, {xtype:xtype}, 'dsq-post-video');
		} else {
			Dsq.Iframes.showReplyIframeInContainer(container, id);
		}
		this.stateRecordLink[id] = !this.stateRecordLink[id];
		this._updateMediaLinks(el, id);

		if(Dsq.Utils.ie) { Dsq.Utils.fixIframesIE(); }
	};

	this.edit = function(el, id) {
		Dsq.$('dsq-comment-message-' + id).innerHTML = Dsq.Templates.frameEdit(id);
		el.parentNode.style.display = 'none';
		if(Dsq.Utils.ie) { Dsq.Utils.fixIframesIE('dsq-comment-message-' + id); }
	};

    this.rate = function(el, id, vote) {
		if(Dsq.jsonData.request.is_authenticated || Dsq.jsonData.forum.allow_anon_votes) {
			if(vote == 1) {
                Dsq.$('dsq-rate-cont-' + id).innerHTML = '<img src="http://media.disqus.com/images/loading-small.gif">';
            }

            Dsq.Utils.execScript('http://disqus.com/forums/scobleizer/vote.js'
                + '?post_id='    + id
                + '&vote='        + vote);

		} else {
			Dsq.Popup.login(Dsq.Strings.TO_RATE_PLEASE_LOG_IN);
		}
    };

	this.report = function(id, confirmed) {
		if(confirmed) {
			Dsq.Utils.postToUrl('http://disqus.com/forums/scobleizer/i_am_not_an_american/post_report/', {'post_id': id});
			Dsq.Popup.popModal('Thank you. This comment has been flagged for moderator attention.', 'Successfully flagged');
			Dsq.Utils.deleteNode(Dsq.$('dsq-post-report-' + id));
		} else {
			var title = Dsq.Strings.FLAG_INAPPROPRIATE_COMMENT;
			var message = Dsq.Strings.ARE_YOU_SURE_YOU_WOULD_LIKE_TO_REPORT_THIS_COMMENT_TO_A_MODERATOR + '? \
			<br /><br /> \
			<button type="button" onclick="Dsq.Popup._closePopup(null, true)"><strong>' + Dsq.Strings.NO + '</strong>, ' + Dsq.Strings.NEVER_MIND + '</button>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<button type="button" onclick="Dsq.Post.report(' + id + ', true);"><strong>' + Dsq.Strings.YES + '</strong>, ' + Dsq.Strings.FLAG_INAPPROPRIATE_COMMENT + '</button><br /><br />'
			+ Dsq.Strings.THIS_WILL_FLAG_COMMENTS_FOR_MODERATORS_TO_TAKE_ACTION + '. \
			';

			Dsq.Popup.popModal(message, title, id);
		}
	};



	this.showAlert = function(id, msg) {
		var msgEl = Dsq.$('dsq-comment-message-' + id);
		var alert = '<div class="dsq-comment-alert">' + msg + '</div>';

		msgEl.innerHTML = alert + msgEl.innerHTML;
	};

};
// Dsq.Post


/**
 * Dsq.Thread
 */
Dsq.Thread = new function() {
	this.fc = null;
	this.ff = null;
	this.ac = null;

	
	this.adminIsOn = false;

	
	
	

	this.hlComment = null;
	this.hlCommentClass = null;

	this.getNextComment = function(el) {
		var start_id = el.id;
		while(el = el.nextSibling) {
			if(el.id && el.id.indexOf('dsq-comment-') != -1 && el.id != start_id) {
				return el;
			}
		}
		return null;
	};

	this.getActiveCommentId = function() {
		if (document.URL.indexOf('#comment-') >= 0) {
			var anchor = document.URL.slice(document.URL.indexOf('#') + 1);
			return anchor.replace('comment-', '');
		}
		return null;
	};

	this.highlightAnchor = function() {
		var i = this.getActiveCommentId();
		if (i == null) return false;
		var id = 'dsq-comment-' + i;
		var hash = window.location.hash;

		// Toggle the hash incase the comment isn't available when the page loads
		// for WebKit-based browsers.
		if (Dsq.Utils.webkit) {
			window.location.hash = '';
			window.location.hash = hash;
		}

		this.hlComment = Dsq.$(id);
		// Adding this conditional guard pending #289
		if (!this.hlComment) {
			return;
		}
		this.hlCommentClass = this.hlComment.className;
		this.hlComment.className += ' dsq-hl-anchor';

		setTimeout("Dsq.Thread.highlightClear()", 3000);
	};

	this.highlightClear = function() {
		if (!this.hlComment) {
			return;
		}
		this.hlComment.className = this.hlCommentClass;
	};

	this.login = function(toggle) {
		// toggle id is #dsq-reply-login-[id]
		var postId;
		if(toggle.id.indexOf('dsq-reply-login') != -1) {
			postId = toggle.id.slice(16);
			var container = Dsq.$('dsq-reply-' + postId);
		} else {
			var container = Dsq.$('dsq-post-add');
		}

		if(toggle) {
			if(toggle.className == 'dsq-login-active') {
				Dsq.Iframes.showReplyIframeInContainerIfAllowed(container, postId);
				toggle.className = '';
			} else {
				Dsq.Iframes.showLoginIframeInContainer(container, postId);
				toggle.className = 'dsq-login-active';
			}
		} else {
			Dsq.Iframes.showLoginIframeInContainer(container, postId);
		}

		if(Dsq.Utils.ie) { Dsq.Utils.fixIframesIE(); }
	};


	this.paginate = function(page, el_clicked, per_page) {
		// Use extra_params to pass any override parameters that we need to persist.
		var extra_params = '';

		// "Per page" can either be overriden by providing it as an argument
		// (per-call) or setting the disqus_per_page override variable (global).
		if(typeof per_page == 'undefined') {
			per_page = null;
		}
		if(typeof disqus_per_page != 'undefined' && per_page === null) {
			per_page = disqus_per_page;
		}

		if(typeof disqus_sort != 'undefined') {
			extra_params += '&sort=' + disqus_sort;
		}
		if(per_page !== null) {
			extra_params += '&per_page=' + per_page;
		}

		Dsq.$('dsq-pagination').innerHTML += '<img src="http://media.disqus.com/images/loading-small.gif">';
		
		if(el_clicked) {
			el_clicked.style.display = 'none';
		}
		
		Dsq.Utils.execScript('http://disqus.com/forums/scobleizer/thread.js'
			+ '?slug='	+ 'i_am_not_an_american'
			+ '&p='		+ page
			+ extra_params);
	};

	this.sortBy = function(sort) {
		var disqus_script = document.createElement('script');
		var disqus_date = new Date();

		if (location.hash != '') {
			location.hash = '#disqus_thread';
		}

		if(typeof(disqus_url) == 'undefined') {
			disqus_url = disqus_href;
		}
		disqus_script.type = 'text/javascript';
		disqus_script.src = 'http://disqus.com/forums/scobleizer/thread.js'
			+ '?slug='	+ 'i_am_not_an_american'
			+ '&sort='	+ sort
			+ '&title='
			+ '&'		+ disqus_date.getTime();

		Dsq.$('dsq-comments').innerHTML = '<img src="http://media.disqus.com/images/loading.gif">';
		Dsq.container.appendChild(disqus_script);
	};

	this.subscribe = function(status, email) {
		// `status` is an int -- 1 to subscribe, 0 to unsubscribe
		if(Dsq.jsonData.request.is_authenticated || email) {
			// If authenticated user OR anonymous email provided

			if(email) {
				Dsq.Popup._closePopup(null, true);
			}

			Dsq.Utils.execScript('http://disqus.com/forums/scobleizer/subscribe.js'
				+'?status=' 	+ status
				+ '&slug='		+ 'i_am_not_an_american'
				+ '&email=' 	+ encodeURIComponent(email));

		} else if(!email) {
			// If anonymous user and no email has been provided yet, prompt for email

			var title = 'Subscribe to this comment thread';
			var message = ' \
				New comments will be sent directly to your email inbox! \
				<div class="dsq-subscribe-submit"> \
					<p><strong>Enter your email address below.</strong></p> \
					<input type="text" id="dsq-subscribe-email"> \
					<button type="button" onclick="Dsq.Thread.subscribe(1, Dsq.$(\'dsq-subscribe-email\').value)">Subscribe</button> \
				</div> \
			';

			Dsq.Popup.popModal(message, title);
		}
	};

	this.showSettings = function() {
		if (!Dsq.jsonData.request.is_moderator) {
			return;
		}

		/* The form has to be re-designed when more options will come out. */
		var html = 'Automatically close comments after <input size="3" id="dsq-thread-days-alive" value="' + Dsq.jsonData.thread.days_alive + '" type="text" /> days. Existing comments will still be displayed.<br /><br />(Using 0 days will disable this feature)<br /><br />'
								 + '<button type="button" onclick="Dsq.Thread.updateDaysAlive();" class="dsq-button-small"><span>Save</span></button>'
								 + '<span id="dsq-thread-settings-status" class="dsq-options-status"></span>';

		Dsq.Popup.popModal(html, 'Settings');
	};

  this.showModeratorActions = function() {
      if (!Dsq.jsonData.request.is_moderator) {
          return;
      }

      var html = '<div class="dsq-moderate-options"><table><tr>' +
                 '<td>' + Dsq.Strings.ACTIONS + '</td><td><ul>';
      html += '<li><a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Thread.toggleClosed(); return false;">' +
              (Dsq.jsonData.thread.closed ? Dsq.Strings.OPEN_THREAD : Dsq.Strings.CLOSE_THREAD) +
              '</a></li>';
      html += '<li><a href="#" onclick="Dsq.Thread.toggleKilled(); return false;">' +
              (Dsq.jsonData.thread.killed ? Dsq.Strings.RESTORE_THREAD : Dsq.Strings.REMOVE_THREAD) +
              '</a></li>';
      html += '</ul></td></tr></table></div>' +
              '<p>Go to the full <a href="http://disqus.com/comments/moderate-threads/" target="_blank">moderate panel</a> for more options.</p>';
      Dsq.Popup.popModal(html, Dsq.Strings.MODERATE_OPTIONS);
  };

	this.updateDaysAlive = function() {
		  var days = Dsq.$('dsq-thread-days-alive').value;
		  var status = Dsq.$('dsq-thread-settings-status');
		  Dsq.Utils.postToUrl('http://disqus.com/forums/scobleizer/update_days_alive.js', {days:days,thread:Dsq.jsonData.thread.id});
		  status.innerHTML = 'Saved!';
		  window.setTimeout(function() { status.innerHTML = ''; }, 1000);
	};

  this.toggleClosed = function() {
      Dsq.Utils.postToUrl('http://disqus.com/forums/scobleizer/toggle_thread_closed.js', {thread:Dsq.jsonData.thread.id});
      window.setTimeout(function() { window.location.reload(); }, 500);
  };

  this.toggleKilled = function() {
      Dsq.Utils.postToUrl('http://disqus.com/forums/scobleizer/toggle_thread_killed.js', {thread:Dsq.jsonData.thread.id});
      window.setTimeout(function() { window.location.reload(); }, 500);
  };
};
// Dsq.Thread

Dsq.Events = function() {
	var obj = {};

	// Private
	var handlers = {};
	var getHandlers = function(event) {
		if (handlers[event] === undefined) {
			handlers[event] = [];
		}
		return handlers[event];
	};

	// Public
	// Value keys : postId, node, xtype
	obj.REPLY_IFRAME_CREATED = 1;
	// Value keys : postId, opened
	obj.REPLY_IFRAME_TOGGLED = 2;
	obj.fire = function(event, opt_value) {
		if (!event) {
			throw new Error('Unknown event');
		}
		var value = opt_value || {};
		for (var i=0; i<getHandlers(event).length; i++) {
			getHandlers(event)[i](value);
		}
	};
	obj.addHandler = function(event, callback) {
		getHandlers(event).push(callback);
	};

	return obj;
}();

/**
 * Dsq.Realtime
 */
Dsq.Realtime = new function() {
	var initialized = false;
	var interval = null;
	var last_checked = Dsq.jsonData.request.timestamp;
	var new_posts = [];
	var ongoing_request = false;
	var prev_script = null;

	function updateNewPostCount() {
		Dsq.$('dsq-realtime-alert').style.display = new_posts.length ? 'block' : 'none';

		Dsq.$('dsq-realtime-queued').innerHTML = new_posts.length
		+ ' new '
		+ Dsq.Utils.pluralize(new_posts.length, 'comment', 'comments')
		+ Dsq.Utils.pluralize(new_posts.length, ' was', ' were')
		+ ' just posted.';

		Dsq.$('dsq-realtime-show').innerHTML = '(' + Dsq.Strings.SHOW + ')';
	}

	function insertNewPosts() {
		var post_id = null;
		var after_id = Dsq.$('dsq-sort-select').value === 'oldest' ? -1 : null;

		for (var i=0; i<new_posts.length; i++) {
			post_id = new_posts[i];
			Dsq.Post.insert(after_id, post_id, Dsq.jsonData.posts[post_id].message);
			Dsq.Post.incrementPostCount();
			Dsq.Post.outlineComment(post_id);
		}
		new_posts = [];
	}

	this.enableInterval = function() {
		interval = setInterval(Dsq.Realtime.check, Dsq.jsonData.context.realtime_speed);
		Dsq.$('dsq-realtime-status').innerHTML = Dsq.Strings.ENABLED;
		Dsq.$('dsq-realtime-toggle').innerHTML = '(' + Dsq.Strings.PAUSE + ')';
	}

	this.disableInterval = function() {
		if (interval) {
			clearInterval(interval);
			interval = null;
		}
		Dsq.$('dsq-realtime-status').innerHTML = Dsq.Strings.PAUSED;
		Dsq.$('dsq-realtime-toggle').innerHTML = '(' + Dsq.Strings.RESUME + ')';
	}

	this.toggleInterval = function() {
		if (!interval) {
			Dsq.Realtime.enableInterval();
		} else {
			Dsq.Realtime.disableInterval();
		}
		return false;
	}

	this.initialize = function() {
		if (!initialized) {
			initialized = true;
			Dsq.$('dsq-realtime-toggle').onclick = this.toggleInterval;
			if (!Dsq.jsonData.forum.streaming_realtime) {
				Dsq.$('dsq-realtime-show').onclick = this.show;
				updateNewPostCount();
			}
			if (Dsq.jsonData.thread.realtime_paused) {
				Dsq.Realtime.disableInterval();
			} else {
				Dsq.Realtime.enableInterval();
			}
		}
	}

	this.show = function() {
		insertNewPosts();
		updateNewPostCount();
		return false;
	}

	this.check = function() {
		if (!ongoing_request && Dsq.jsonData.realtime_enabled) {
			if (prev_script) {
				prev_script.parentNode.removeChild(prev_script);
			}
			ongoing_request = true;
			prev_script = Dsq.Utils.execScript('http://disqus.com/forums/18356296/realtime.js?timestamp=' + last_checked);
		}
	};

	this.update = function(timestamp, posts, users) {
		ongoing_request = false;
		last_checked = timestamp;

		if (users) {
			for (var user_id in users) {
				if (users.hasOwnProperty(user_id)) {
					if (!Dsq.jsonData.users[user_id]) {
						Dsq.jsonData.users[user_id] = users[user_id];
					}
				}
			}
		}

		if (posts) {
			for (var post_id in posts) {
				if (posts.hasOwnProperty(post_id)) {
					if (!Dsq.jsonData.posts[post_id]) {
						Dsq.jsonData.posts[post_id] = posts[post_id];
						new_posts.push(post_id);
					}
				}
			}

			if (Dsq.jsonData.forum.streaming_realtime) {
				insertNewPosts();
			} else {
				updateNewPostCount();
			}
		}
	};

}();

// DEPRECATED
Dsq.Iframes = function() {
	// Different style of object from the above. Hoping to switch to this for some reason.
	var obj = {};

	// Private
	var showIframeInContainer = function(container, id, markup) {
		// Look through container for iframes, hiding them, except show one that matches id
		// If none of them matched id, create a new iframe using markup and insert it.
		// Returns the iframe node if and only if it was newly created.
		var found = false;
		for (var i=0; i<container.childNodes.length; i++) {
			var child = container.childNodes[i];
			if (child.nodeName == 'IFRAME') {
				if (child.id == id) {
					child.style.display = 'block';
					found = true;
				} else {
					child.style.display = 'none';
				}
			}
		}
		if (found) {
			return;
		}
		// The iframe wasn't found, so construct it and add it to the container.
		// Don't use innerHTML because it might reload iframes
		var div = document.createElement('div');
		div.innerHTML = markup;
		var iframe = div.childNodes[0];
		div.removeChild(iframe);
		container.appendChild(iframe);
		return iframe;
	};

	// Public
	obj.makeReplyIframeId = function(opt_postId, opt_xtype) {
		var id = 'dsq-post-add-iframe';
		if (opt_xtype) {
			id += '-' + opt_xtype;
		}
		if (opt_postId) {
			id += '-' + opt_postId;
		}
		return id;
	};
	obj.makeLoginIframeId = function(opt_postId) {
		if (!opt_postId) {
			return 'dsq-login-iframe';
		}
		return 'dsq-login-iframe-' + opt_postId;
	};
	obj.makeReplyIframeName = function(opt_postId, opt_xtype) {
		var name = 'dsq-reply-frame';
		if (opt_xtype) {
			name += '-' + opt_xtype;
		}
		if (opt_postId) {
			name += '-' + opt_postId;
		}
		return name;
	};
	obj.showReplyIframeInContainer = function(container, opt_postId, opt_extraParams, opt_className) {
		// Construct the id so we can check if it's already present.
		// Hide any other iframes we find, and show this one if it's found.
		var params = opt_extraParams || {};
		// use xtype in the id and name so we can distinguish media replies from text replies:
		var id = Dsq.Iframes.makeReplyIframeId(opt_postId, params.xtype);
		var name = Dsq.Iframes.makeReplyIframeName(opt_postId, params.xtype);
		var attributes = {
			'id': id,
			'name': name,
			'class': opt_className || 'dsq-post-reply'
			};
		var markup = Dsq.Templates.frameReply(opt_postId, opt_extraParams, attributes);
		var iframe = showIframeInContainer(container, id, markup);
		// It was newly created
		if (iframe) {
			Dsq.Events.fire(Dsq.Events.REPLY_IFRAME_CREATED, {
				postId: opt_postId,
				node: iframe,
				xtype: params.xtype
			});
		}
	};
	obj.showLoginIframeInContainer = function(container, opt_postId) {
		var id = Dsq.Iframes.makeLoginIframeId(opt_postId);
		var markup = Dsq.Templates.frameLogin({id: id});
		showIframeInContainer(container, id, markup);
	};
	obj.showReplyIframeInContainerIfAllowed = function(container, opt_postId) {
		if (Dsq.jsonData.context.show_reply) {
			obj.showReplyIframeInContainer(container, opt_postId);
		} else {
			obj.hideAllInContainer(container);
		}
	};
	obj.hideAllInContainer = function(container) {
		for (var i=0; i<container.childNodes.length; i++) {
			var child = container.childNodes[i];
			if (child.nodeName == 'IFRAME') {
				child.style.display = 'none';
			}
		}
	};

	return obj;
}();

Dsq.Twitter = new function() {
	var that = this;

	this.startTwitterConnect = function() {
		var popupParams = 'location=0,status=0,width=800,height=400';
		that._twitterWindow = window.open(Dsq.jsonData.settings.disqus_url + '/_ax/twitter/begin/', 'twitterWindow', popupParams);
		that._twitterInterval = window.setInterval(that.completeTwitterConnect, 1000);
	};

	this.completeTwitterConnect = function() {
		if (that._twitterWindow.closed) {
			window.clearInterval(that._twitterInterval);
			window.location.reload();
		}
	};
};

Dsq.Yahoo = new function() {
	var that = this;

	this.startYahooConnect = function() {
		var popupParams = 'location=0,status=0,width=800,height=400';
		that._yahooWindow = window.open(Dsq.jsonData.settings.disqus_url + '/_ax/yahoo/begin/', 'yahooWindow', popupParams);
		that._yahooInterval = window.setInterval(that.completeYahooConnect, 1000);
	};

	this.completeYahooConnect = function() {
		if (that._yahooWindow.closed) {
			window.clearInterval(that._yahooInterval);
			window.location.reload();
		}
	};
};

Dsq.OpenID = new function() {
	var that = this;

	this.requestURL = function() {
		var message = '<table class="dsq-openid-form"><tr><td style="vertical-align:top;" rowspan="2"><img src="' + Dsq.jsonData.settings.media_url + '/images/openid-icon-100x100.png" /></td>';
		message += '<td><label for="dsq-openid-url">OpenID URL:</label></td><td><input type="text" id="dsq-openid-url" /></td></tr>';
		message += '<tr><td><label for="dsq-openid-username">Display name:</label></td><td><input type="text" id="dsq-openid-username" /></td></tr>';
		message += '<tr><td class="dsq-openid-submit" colspan="3"><input type="button" value="Sign in" onclick="Dsq.OpenID.startConnect();" /></td></tr>';
		message += "</table>";

		Dsq.Popup.popModal(message, 'Sign in using OpenID');
	};

	this.startConnect = function() {
		var isblank = function(str) {
			return /^\s*$/.test(str);
		};

		var openid_url = Dsq.$('dsq-openid-url').value;
		var username = Dsq.$('dsq-openid-username').value;

		if (isblank(openid_url)) {
			return;
		}

		var popupParams = 'location=0,status=0,width=800,height=500';
		var url = Dsq.jsonData.settings.disqus_url + '/_ax/openid/begin/' + '?url=' + encodeURIComponent(openid_url) + '&username=' + encodeURIComponent(username);
		that._openidWindow = window.open(url, 'openidWindow', popupParams);
		that._openidInterval = window.setInterval(that.completeConnect, 1000);
	};

	this.completeConnect = function() {
		if (that._openidWindow.closed) {
			window.clearInterval(that._openidInterval);
			window.location.reload();
		}
	};
};

Dsq.Reaction = new function() {
	var that = this;

	this.hide = function(id) {
		Dsq.Utils.execScript('http://disqus.com/forums/scobleizer/hidereaction.js?' + 'reaction_id=' + id);
	};

	this.reportMissingReactions = function() {
		if (!Dsq.jsonData.request.is_moderator || !Dsq.jsonData.forum.reactions_enabled) {
			return;
		}

		if (Dsq.jsonData.thread.queued) {
			Dsq.Popup.popModal('Your report has been received. The system will automatically search for new reactions; if any are found, they will be displayed on this comment thread.<br/><br/>Thank&nbsp;you.',
												 'Reported missing reactions');
			return;
		}

		Dsq.Utils.execScript(Dsq.jsonData.settings.disqus_url + '/forums/scobleizer/queueurl.js');
	};
};

Dsq.CNN = function() {
	var obj = {};

	obj.authenticate = function() {
		var url = Dsq.jsonData.settings.disqus_url + "/saml/cnn/try/";
		Dsq.Utils.postToUrl(url, {'target': document.location}, true);
	};

	return obj;
}();


if(Dsq.Utils.ie6) {
	(function() {
		DSQ_HEADER_AVATAR_RE = /<div class="dsq-header-avatar"(.*?)>/gim;
		Dsq.Templates.registerFilter('postPrependHeader', function(html, post_id) {
			// Add "onmouseout" for dsq-header-avatar for dropProfile
			// functionality since IE6 cannot use :hover.
			function _headerAvatarReplace(content, inner, _unused, html) {
				return '<div class="dsq-header-avatar" '
					+ inner
					+ ' onmouseout="Dsq.Post.dropProfile(' + post_id + ')">';
			}
			html = html.replace(DSQ_HEADER_AVATAR_RE, _headerAvatarReplace);
			return html;
		});
	})();
}





	// TODO: Move Seesmic code outside of the main script.  Don't let this script clobber the global namespace.
	if(typeof seesmic == 'undefined') { var seesmic = {}; }
	seesmic.widget = new function () {
		this.callback = function (data) {
			playerVersion = data.disqusplayer;
		};
	};

	
	var scriptEl = document.createElement('script');
	scriptEl.setAttribute('type', 'text/javascript');
	scriptEl.setAttribute('src', 'http://seesmic.com/version.js?callback=seesmic.widget.callback');
	document.getElementsByTagName('head')[0].appendChild(scriptEl);

	
	var scriptEl = document.createElement('script');
	scriptEl.setAttribute('type', 'text/javascript');
	scriptEl.setAttribute('src', 'http://media.disqus.com/javascript/library/swfobject.js');
	document.getElementsByTagName('head')[0].appendChild(scriptEl);

	function see_play_video(_videoUri, _add) {
		var swf = !!playerVersion ? playerVersion : 'http://seesmic.com/embeds/StandalonePlayer.swf';

		flashcontentDiv = Dsq.$(_videoUri + '_content');
		previewDiv = Dsq.$('dsq-seesmic-' + _videoUri + '_preview');
		hideDiv = Dsq.$('dsq-seesmic-' + _videoUri + '_hide');
		showDiv = Dsq.$('dsq-seesmic-' + _videoUri + '_show');
		if(_add) {
			// push flash widget
			var so = new SWFObject(swf, 'sotester', '300', '270', '9', '#000000');
			so.addVariable('video', _videoUri);
			so.addParam('allowFullScreen', 'true');
			so.addParam('allowScriptAccess','always');
			so.useExpressInstall('swfobject/expressinstall.swf');
			so.write(_videoUri + '_content');

			previewDiv.style.display = 'none';
			hideDiv.style.display = 'block';
			showDiv.style.display = 'none';
		}
		else {
			flashcontentDiv.innerHTML = '';
			previewDiv.style.display = 'block';
			hideDiv.style.display = 'none';
			showDiv.style.display = 'block';
		}
	};





(function() {
	//
	// Load theme.  This overrides the base templates with template functions
	// from the respective themes.
	//
	if (Dsq.jsonData.integration.theme == 4) {
		var theme = 'narcissus';
		// HACK: Set variable on window to use post message.
		window.disqus_use_postmessage = true;

		
		for(var prop in Dsq.Themes[theme]) {
			if(Dsq.Themes[theme] && Dsq.Themes[theme].hasOwnProperty(prop)) {
				Dsq.Templates[prop] = Dsq.Themes[theme][prop];
			}
		}
		
		for(var prop in Dsq.Post) {
			if(Dsq.Themes[theme] && Dsq.Themes[theme].hasOwnProperty(prop)) {
				Dsq.Post[prop] = Dsq.Themes[theme][prop];
			}
		}
	}

	//
	// Register templates.  This must be done after all themes are loaded.
	//
	Dsq.Templates.registerTemplate('authPost', Dsq.Templates.authPost);
	Dsq.Templates.registerTemplate('header', Dsq.Templates.header);
	Dsq.Templates.registerTemplate('footer', Dsq.Templates.footer);
	Dsq.Templates.registerTemplate('trackbacks', Dsq.Templates.trackbacks);
	Dsq.Templates.registerTemplate('reactions', Dsq.Templates.reactions);
	Dsq.Templates.registerTemplate('prependPost', Dsq.Templates.prependPost);
	Dsq.Templates.registerTemplate('appendPost', Dsq.Templates.appendPost);
	Dsq.Templates.registerTemplate('postPrependHeader', Dsq.Templates.postPrependHeader);
	Dsq.Templates.registerTemplate('postAppendHeader', Dsq.Templates.postAppendHeader);
	Dsq.Templates.registerTemplate('preBody', Dsq.Templates.preBody);
	Dsq.Templates.registerTemplate('postBody', Dsq.Templates.postBody);
	Dsq.Templates.registerTemplate('postFooter', Dsq.Templates.postFooter);
	Dsq.Templates.registerTemplate('_popupGeneric', Dsq.Templates._popupGeneric);
	Dsq.Templates.registerTemplate('voted', Dsq.Templates.voted);
	Dsq.Templates.registerTemplate('popupProfile', Dsq.Templates.popupProfile);
	Dsq.Templates.registerTemplate('postBox', Dsq.Templates.postBox);
	Dsq.Templates.registerTemplate('pagination', Dsq.Templates.pagination);
	Dsq.Templates.registerTemplate('postComment_onSuccess', Dsq.Templates.postComment_onSuccess);

})();

Dsq.container.className = "clearfix";
Dsq.container.innerHTML = ' \
<ul id="dsq-comments">\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711177">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711177" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711177" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711177" href="http://www.ninjakai.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Kai Davis</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711177" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711177" class="dsq-comment-message">Well said.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711178">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711178" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711178" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711178" href="http://www.penmachine.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Derek K. Miller</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711178" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711178" class="dsq-comment-message">You mean that you converted to Islam, not Muslim, right?<br><br>And, probably more accurately, that you went through the motions of converting to Islam in order to get married, right? :)</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711179">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711179" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711179" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711179">Dizavin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711179" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711179" class="dsq-comment-message">heh, that\'s funny. "I am not American". when that phrase is said, it really could be followed with "I am a Canadian" and it wouldn\'t be that far off target.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711180">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711180" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711180" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711180" href="http://www.drumsnwhistles.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Karoli</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711180" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711180" class="dsq-comment-message">Hear hear!  Well said.<br><br>Signed, another "not an American"</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711181">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711181" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711181" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711181" href="http://www.shahine.com/omar" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Omar Shahine</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711181" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711181" class="dsq-comment-message">"Even worse, I converted to Muslim so that we could be married in an Iranian ceremony."<br><br>I think you mean, I converted to "Islam".</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711182">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711182" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711182" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711182" href="http://www.thepuckwrites.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">thePuck</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711182" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711182" class="dsq-comment-message">Great post, Robert. I have to say that, increasingly, it seems that anything that speaks of reason, ethics, or even basic fairness (the fairness of kindergarten, not Mill\'s "On Liberty") is "unAmerican".</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711183">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711183" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711183" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711183" href="http://gregorlove.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">gRegor</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711183" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711183" class="dsq-comment-message">Are you prepared to use aggression (the initiation or the threat of physical force) to achieve what you believe is "fair" in wealth redistribution?</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711184">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711184" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711184" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711184" href="http://scobleizer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Robert Scoble</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711184" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711184" class="dsq-comment-message">Derek and Omar, yeah, sorry, you are right. I was typing too fast. Fixed that.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711185">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711185" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711185" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711185" href="http://scobleizer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Robert Scoble</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711185" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711185" class="dsq-comment-message">gRegor: I don\'t believe the taxation system is "intimidation or the threat of physical force." I\'m not an American.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711186">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711186" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711186" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711186">Mark</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711186" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711186" class="dsq-comment-message">I\'m a Canadian and this post reminds me of our famous "I am Canadian" Ad campaign....in reverse. Glad to hear there are some Americans that are willing to say what they think and not be afraid to offend their country a bit.<br><br><a href="http://www.vimeo.com/36597" rel="nofollow">http://www.vimeo.com/36597</a><br><br>Mark</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711187">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711187" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711187" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711187">Algorithmic</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711187" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711187" class="dsq-comment-message">I really just wish we had more than two choices for president. The two-party system only serves to polarize issues and separate the country.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711188">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711188" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711188" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711188" href="http://philbaumann.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Phil Baumann</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711188" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711188" class="dsq-comment-message">You are an American. So am I: a first-generation American and proud of it.<br><br>It\'s too bad that so many Americans have lost their way. It\'s partly a symptom of a rapidly changing world.<br><br>Don\'t be too down on yourself. Wearing you down is a part of the plan of psychopaths and heretics who are butchering our country.<br><br>When times get rough, most people lose their minds to mental illness. Change can be too stressful for some people. In an attempt to establish something solid, they often turn to things which give them the illusion of security: false religions, drugs, political extremism.<br><br>Don\'t let a suffering culture deprive you of your inalienable right to critical thinking.<br><br>I\'m as frustrated as you. But I\'m frustrated BECAUSE I\'m an American. (But it\'s getting lonely.)<br><br>This may be a time to be sick to your stomach, but it\'s not a time to quit.<br><br>Grab a beer, Scoble. The game\'s not over. (:</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711189">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711189" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711189" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711189">m</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711189" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711189" class="dsq-comment-message">Sorry just one little nitpick on an otherwise great post: one does *not* need to be Muslim to marry in an Iranian ceremony. I\'m sure your wife will confirm that Iranian does NOT automatically= Muslim. One can be Iranian and not Muslim. However, you would be right in saying that you do have to convert to Islam if you wish to marry in a *Muslim* (not Iranian) ceremony.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711190">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711190" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711190" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711190" href="http://youmakeitup.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Mary K</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711190" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711190" class="dsq-comment-message">Whoo Hoo!!! I\'ve been Scobleized again!!!!<br><br>You are such an inspiration and I appreciate your willingness to stand up and state your unamerican views...<br><br>not just because I share them...<br>not just because I was born and bred in these not-so-united states...<br><br>Because it\'s just so old-tyme AMERICAN!!!!<br><br>THANK YOU!<br>–Mary K<br><br>¸..· ´¨¨)) -:¦:-<br>¸.·´ .·´¨¨))<br>((¸¸.·´ ..·´ -:¦:-<br>-:¦:- ((¸¸.·´* Light<br><br>EXPECT MIRACLES!</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711176">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711176" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711176" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711176">Andrew Feinberg</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711176" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711176" class="dsq-comment-message">Does this mean you\'re going to put a border fence around your house and issue passports and currency?<br><br>And could you make me an ambassador so I can park wherever I want? Mmmm...diplomatic license tags...</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711175">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711175" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711175" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711175" href="http://chris.gaia.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Christopher Galtenberg</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711175" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711175" class="dsq-comment-message">I am not a listener of right-wing talk radio or one who parrots its doctrine. I am an American, and I do not surrender my proud title.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711167">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711167" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711167" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711167">Tagertux</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711167" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711167" class="dsq-comment-message">Thanks. Now can we get back to the tech. I live in the UK and I\'m sick of the election already. I can\'t imagine what it\'s like over there.  But if you keep covering it I might as well read a political blog...</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711168">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711168" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711168" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711168" href="http://www.chrissaad.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Chris Saad</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711168" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711168" class="dsq-comment-message">Awesome Robert - if you move to Australia I can hook you up with some awesome people and show you kangaroos :)</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711169">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711169" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711169" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711169" href="http://www.wahms.net/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">I am Canadian</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711169" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711169" class="dsq-comment-message">Very well said, Robert!<br><br>Sounds to me like you could very well be a Canadian!  :)</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711170">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711170" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711170" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711170" href="http://blog.mastermaq.ca/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Mack D. Male</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711170" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711170" class="dsq-comment-message">You\'re always welcome up here in Canada, Robert!</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711171">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711171" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711171" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711171" href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/mattabrams" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Matt Abrams</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711171" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711171" class="dsq-comment-message">Bravo Robert!  Nicely said...</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711172">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711172" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711172" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711172" href="http://ffynnonweb.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Julia Ault</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711172" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711172" class="dsq-comment-message">Goodness me Robert....you sound like a British liberal type like me.....<br>You can come over here if you like :-)</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711173">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711173" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711173" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711173" href="http://scobleizer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Robert Scoble</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711173" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711173" class="dsq-comment-message">Tagertux: our politics and our technology gets all mixed together. Remember what happened to Microsoft when they tried to ignore politics?</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711174">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711174" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711174" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711174" href="http://www.oxhornbrandmovies.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Oxhorn</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711174" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711174" class="dsq-comment-message">Oh dear, how else can this go?<br><br>I have a history of voting Republican. I must not be an American.<br>I\'m not voting this time because both candidates suck. I\'m REALLY not an American.<br>I believe that wealth should belong to those who earn it, that women DON\'T have the right to murder, just like all people don\'t have the right to murder, that none of us, regardless of sexual orientation, have the right to marry whomever we love, that all faiths, even popular ones, should be tolerated, parodied, mocked, and ridiculed equally, instead of having certain ones that are ok to make fun of and others that are taboo, that all people--regardless of "minority" or "majority" status, should have an equal chance to get into college, live where they want, send their kids to whatever school they want and receive the same financial benefits, instead of categorizing people based on race or religion and handing out swag accordingly.<br><br>Boy, I must really not be an American.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711164">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711164" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711164" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711164" href="http://www.creatid.eu/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">RayD</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711164" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711164" class="dsq-comment-message">Welcome to the rest of the world\'s population - even though we have our problems too...</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711165">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711165" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711165" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711165" href="http://blogs.sun.com/davetong" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Dave Tong</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711165" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711165" class="dsq-comment-message">Could not agree more.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711166">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711166" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711166" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711166" href="http://jebers.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Jack Carlson</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711166" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711166" class="dsq-comment-message">When I was in the Army I thought I was defending the America of the Constitution so that its freedoms could be preserved. These days I wonder. So perhaps this Vietnam vet isn\'t an American either, since I agree with the points you present.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711163">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711163" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711163" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711163" href="http://scobleizer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Robert Scoble</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711163" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711163" class="dsq-comment-message">Oxhorn: Republicans have been in charge for the last eight years. They also are the ones that are claiming that I\'m not American and that you are American. So, no, you don\'t get to play this game.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711162">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711162" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711162" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711162">Rowan</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711162" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711162" class="dsq-comment-message">I\'m not American (literally)... but you\'re welcome in OZ anytime...<br><br>And to all those people that think taxes are the root of all evil -- what\'s the alternative? No taxes? OK, no taxes then... so who pays for the infrastructure? Who pays for the cops? Who pays for the judges? Who pays the military? Who pays for anything? You? Are you going to police your own streets? Treat your own injuries? Pave your own roads? Good luck. Might sound nice in la-la-land, but in reality you\'re just blinded by your short-sighted greed.<br><br>Like it or not, taxes are the foundation of a civilized democracy. It is the price we pay to live comfortably and feel safe.<br><br>Go Scoble!</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711110">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711110" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711110" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711110" href="http://www.emaildashboard.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Deva Hazarika</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711110" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711110" class="dsq-comment-message">Robert, I think it\'s very easy and a bit of a cop-out to write what you\'re not.  I\'d be much more interested in the answer to the question, OK if you\'re not an American, what are you?</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711111">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711111" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711111" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711111" href="http://scobleizer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Robert Scoble</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711111" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711111" class="dsq-comment-message">Deva: a human.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711108">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711108" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711108" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711108" href="http://www.emaildashboard.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Deva Hazarika</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711108" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711108" class="dsq-comment-message">Or, put another way, do you think your post is more being part of the problem or being part of the solution?</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711109">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711109" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711109" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711109" href="http://www.emaildashboard.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Deva Hazarika</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711109" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711109" class="dsq-comment-message">Robert, great answer.  FWIW, I think a post about why you are a human and what that means to you would be a more positive post than this one, and would have just as much impact.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711106">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711106" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711106" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711106">JamesGecko</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711106" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711106" class="dsq-comment-message">More accurately, you\'re not a straw man.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711107">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711107" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711107" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711107" href="http://blogs.sun.com/socialandmore" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Marc Dierens</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711107" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711107" class="dsq-comment-message">Algorithmic, there are, as with everything, advantages and issues with a 2 party system.  In Belgium we have a splintered political system, which leads to a government always needing 4 to 6 parties to form a government, which makes it basically impossible to govern properly.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711119">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711119" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711119" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711119">hshawjr</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711119" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711119" class="dsq-comment-message">I am not an American that will be quiet anymore, I too am tired of those telling me what or how I should believe.  :)</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711121">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711121" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711121" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711121" href="http://chris.gaia.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Christopher Galtenberg</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711121" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711121" class="dsq-comment-message">I truly despair, seeing these comments of happy agreement.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711122">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711122" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711122" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711122">Joe Programmer</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711122" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711122" class="dsq-comment-message">If you\'re not an American, please feel free to leave.<br><br>I am Joe.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711123">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711123" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711123" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711123">Jess Fein</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711123" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711123" class="dsq-comment-message">Your commentaries on technology are usually interesting and well-informed.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711120">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711120" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711120" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711120">Geert</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711120" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711120" class="dsq-comment-message">Too much patriotism always seems to create problems, so it\'s actually nice and funny to see you are able to proudly say "I’m not an American".  I am looking forward to your next post where you say "I don\'t live in the greatest nation in the world" ... because I wish people (especially politicians) should stop saying that! :)</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711124">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711124" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711124" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711124" href="http://scobleizer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Robert Scoble</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711124" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711124" class="dsq-comment-message">Geert: it\'s very hard to say lately that I live in the greatest nation in the world. But, there\'s a backlash against bloggers who aren\'t positive enough in today\'s tough economic times, so I probably won\'t write that post. :-)</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711125">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711125" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711125" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711125" href="http://edwink.devhd.com" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Edwin Khodabakchian</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711125" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711125" class="dsq-comment-message">During the last 8 years, America drifted too much to the right. But the beauty of the america and the american system is that it is flexible and we are on the path to adapt and correct that mistake. To do so, we need to put the politics, stereotypes, religions apart and come together and get ready for 4-8 years or hard work.<br><br>The big difference between Europe and America is the work ethics. Americans are very hard working and flexible. Europeans are on the other hand locked into a set of privileges and benefits they expect and have a hard time adapting to a changing world. But like you pointed out and Powell pointed out in his speech today, there is probably a right balance. It will be interesting to see once Obama wins where he stands regarding that balance...there is always risk of over-shifting to the left...which given the current situation could be disastrous.<br><br>Note: I am actually not American, but proud to live in America.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711126">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711126" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711126" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711126">Christi</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711126" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711126" class="dsq-comment-message">I subscribed to scobleizer on google reader to hear what you say about technology. I am unsubscribing because that is no longer what you do and I don\'t need to hear the depressing whines anymore.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711127">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711127" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711127" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711127" href="http://www.thetylerhayes.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Tyler Hayes</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711127" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711127" class="dsq-comment-message">Good thing you\'re not being satirical at all ;)<br><br>I wrote a similar post at my own site, except instead of "I\'m not an American" I was essentially contending "I\'m not ignorant." Because I AM an American, and it\'s the people who believe all that crazy shit you wrote about above that aren\'t American.<br><br><a href="http://thetylerhayes.com/2008/10/07/ignorant-america-vs-progressive-america/" rel="nofollow">http://thetylerhayes.com/2008/10/07/ignorant-am...</a></div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711128">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711128" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711128" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711128" href="http://scobleizer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Robert Scoble</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711128" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711128" class="dsq-comment-message">Christi: now YOU are an American! By the way, I\'ll have a video of a tech startup up tonight.<br><br>I really hate people who don\'t like to hear from people who have opinions and stuff. Good bye, you just made my readership smarter.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711132">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711132" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711132" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711132" href="http://www.ikostar.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Nick Taylor</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711132" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711132" class="dsq-comment-message">I made a word cloud of this...<br><a href="http://wordle.net/gallery/wrdl/257307/Robert%2527s_blog_post" rel="nofollow">http://wordle.net/gallery/wrdl/257307/Robert%27...</a><br><br>Sorry dude, but that makes you very much an American... belief and a (frankly astonishing) level of self-focus are peculiarly American traits - well, in the West at least.<br><br>I\'m British / UK. If I re-wrote this using my own country names, I\'d disintegrate with embarrasment after about the 3rd line. We simply don\'t go on about ourselves this much.<br><br>Not that I disagree with you mind. I agree entirely. 100%. But you are American.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711131">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711131" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711131" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711131" href="http://fracardi.wordpress.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">fracardi</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711131" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711131" class="dsq-comment-message">Robert,<br><br>During these years, lots of people around the world are looking to US more and more scared and hopeless. But we also know that US is full of great people as you.<br><br>You are American, Robert! Keep going and fight for the great values you mention. They are 100% consistent with the history of your great country!<br><br>Francesco</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711129">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711129" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711129" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711129">G. Lautour</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711129" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711129" class="dsq-comment-message">The world is watching and knows that the time has come for the USA to become "America" again, with all its generosity and positive spirit. So we are not so much in despair. Despite those pitiful eight years, your nation has done extraordinary deeds for others in the past and will continue to do so. Hopefully Robert, you are the kind of American that your country needs.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711130">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711130" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711130" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711130" href="http://deadnode.org/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">James</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711130" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711130" class="dsq-comment-message">Republicans in charge? Really? Has anyone told Pelosi and Reid that they\'re Republicans?<br><br>I support nuclear power - and extracting our own oil rather than relying on hostile or unstable foreign nations for our economy\'s lifeblood. I know, because science has moved on from the religious mud-slinging of a few years ago, that the controversial stem cell research is greatly overrated: there are other ways to achieve those ends. I believe costs should largely be born by those who incur them, rather than trying to dump them on the shoulders of "the rich".<br><br>Oh, and as for "doing pretty well", the bailout is actually *bigger* this side of the Atlantic (I\'m genuinely not American, give or take a grand-parent: I live in the UK) - and I know first hand that the much-vaunted "universal" health care is greatly overrated: I\'d far rather pay something for it and be able to get a CT scan within a year, rather than wait multiple years to get a "free" government service instead.<br><br>Of course, the two-party system isn\'t as bad as it might seem either, when you look at countries where a party with just 40% of the vote gets unchecked control of the government, outvoting those who represent the other 60% of us. The bizarre false dichotomy between pro-life and pro-choice is something we manage to avoid, of course (instead, there was a democratic debate which laid out the rules for abortion, and can adjust those rules in future as the will of the people evolves) but it does keep most of the genuine lunatics out - we\'re stuck with actual terrorists (IRA affiliated) winning elections!</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711257">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711257" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711257" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711257">yag</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711257" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711257" class="dsq-comment-message">Sorry Robert - you\'re part of the problem. Anyone who emphasizes the jerks on the right with the unamerican theme, and those who emphasize the "buck fush" jerks on the left are both part of the problem. Both are focusing on the things that tear us apart. As are you these last few weeks.<br><br>In the meantime, I haven\'t seen you talk about the actual physical assault by the Obama supporter on the 3 person pro-McCain folks standing on a corner in NYC.<br><br>I\'m an American - Republican or Democrat or Independent or Libertarian. And so are you.<br><br>There\'s hope though - some groups (like <a href="http://PorkBusters.org" rel="nofollow">PorkBusters.org</a>) actually bring people together to say that there\'s a problem and there should be more openness via the web into everything both parties do. Talk about that much? Didn\'t think so.<br><br>It\'s a shame to see a friend descend into this crap. There are good people on both sides - and idiots on both. Sorry buddy - you should take some time and look at what brings us together instead.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711256">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711256" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711256" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711256">yag</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711256" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711256" class="dsq-comment-message">BTW - I\'m not gonna unsubscribe - still interested in your opinions on things - no matter what. That\'s what makes me an American.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711254">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711254" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711254" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711254">hey</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711254" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711254" class="dsq-comment-message">ya fucking socialist of course you are american.  no American believe we shouldn\'t have public servants like police officers and roads and infrastructure.  you are a fucking idiot... seriously move to europe if you want to be a socialist please</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711255">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711255" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711255" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711255" href="http://www.foodorpoison.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Mark</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711255" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711255" class="dsq-comment-message">A bunch of emotionalism and Obama talking points, amounting to nothing. Unsubscribed.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711253">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711253" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711253" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711253">bob</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711253" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711253" class="dsq-comment-message">IF YOU ARE NOT AN AMERICAN THEN GET THE FUCK OUT OR SHUT THE FUCK UP THIS IS THE MOST RETARDED SHIT I HAVE EVER READ</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711252">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711252" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711252" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711252" href="http://www.digg.com/users/four20" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Four20</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711252" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711252" class="dsq-comment-message">If Scoble gets taken out by the feds I call his blog</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711236">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711236" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711236" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711236">bob</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711236" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711236" class="dsq-comment-message">I like how you only leave the nice comments even though you\'ve probably got tons of criticism.  you shoud be proud to be american.  i dont even think you know what it means to be american.  it doesn\'t mean being a libertarian or a socialist.  Fukin A</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711237">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711237" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711237" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711237" href="http://scobleizer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Robert Scoble</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711237" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711237" class="dsq-comment-message">yag: I understand your view and it even has a lot of merit.<br><br>Regarding attacks on Obama supporters. It\'s worse than that. Two days ago a reporter was attacked at a Palin rally and at the Republican convention there were some ultra liberals who attacked the Republicans.<br><br>I don\'t believe that violence is OK, on either side.<br><br>Agree that <a href="http://PorkBusters.org" rel="nofollow">PorkBusters.org</a> is a good site. 538 also seems to be pretty apolitical.<br><br>Got any other sites that can help us heal?</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711238">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711238" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711238" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711238" href="http://scobleizer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Robert Scoble</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711238" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711238" class="dsq-comment-message">Bob: I\'m leaving all comments here. I haven\'t deleted any.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711239">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711239" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711239" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711239" href="http://www.inquisitive-mind.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Markus Kobler</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711239" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711239" class="dsq-comment-message">Not being an American and a liberal minded individual it pains me to think of how much the world has been changed by its current neoconservative American government.<br><br>Having said that, if you have not seed it already, you should checkout Johnathan Haidt\'s TED talk on the moral mind. Defiantly food for thought.<br><br><a href="http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/jonathan_haidt_on_the_moral_mind.html" rel="nofollow">http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/jonathan_hai...</a></div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711240">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711240" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711240" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711240" href="http://scobleizer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Robert Scoble</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711240" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711240" class="dsq-comment-message">Oh, oh, now I know why Bob showed up. I\'m on <a href="http://michellemalkin.com/" rel="nofollow">http://michellemalkin.com/</a> home page.<br><br>By the way, some new comments may be held in moderation until I get home later tonight (I\'m getting on a plane to fly home right now).</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711241">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711241" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711241" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711241">Americasadmirer</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711241" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711241" class="dsq-comment-message">Scobble,<br><br>You just know how to denonce your homeland.<br>Please stop speaking ,and go to Saudia or Iran . Why don\'t you go there ? That\'s the Muslim\'s paradises isn\'t it?<br>I heard that these great country made a lot for humanity, they also have probably a silicon valley there.<br><br>good bye and don\'t forget to continue blogging ...ee be careful they will can put you in jail for this or cut your fingers if you will write things that against the "public\'s moral"<br><br>from a Democratic Country, your lector<br><br>A</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711242">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711242" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711242" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711242" href="http://ladow.net/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Bob</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711242" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711242" class="dsq-comment-message">So some silly Republicans make stupid comments and you take a stand against all things Constitutional?<br><br>I am losing respect for you, Robert.  Seriously.  You shoot from the hip, but you do not seem to have a handle over the issues very much at all.<br><br>In a few weeks you will have what you want: a liberal Congress with a liberal White House.  You will be on the clock for two years.  I suspect the great gains Democrats make this election will all be given back in the mid-term elections.  There will be no blaming someone else for the failed policies.<br><br>My goodness.  Republicans have been in power the last two years?  Where the hell do you get that?<br><br>A different Bob</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711243">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711243" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711243" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711243" href="http://charlesfrench.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Chaz</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711243" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711243" class="dsq-comment-message">BRAVO!!!!!!!!<br><br>So very well said.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711244">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711244" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711244" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711244" href="http://friendfeed.com/philatom" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">philatom</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711244" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711244" class="dsq-comment-message">I don\'t always agree with you Scoble, and after friending (following?) you on FF a few months back it\'s fair to say I had become a little jaded with your increasingly frequent political and socio-economic missives, but I applaud you for standing up and saying how you truly feel about whats going on in your country regardless of how you think others will react, and for your efforts to show both sides of the same coin. Fair play, mate. The web would be a better place if everyone took the same approach. I\'m just not sure I would have the time to follow them all on Friendfeed... ;)</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711245">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711245" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711245" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711245">jake</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711245" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711245" class="dsq-comment-message">It doesn\'t take a rocket scientist to see the level of discourse drop after your right wing trolls get onboard.<br><br>From where I\'m standing in Australia, America is no longer \'great\'. Far from it.<br><br> Its a country primarily inhabited by the most ignorant people on this planet. You people let your leaders torture people, start unjustified preemptive wars all while letting fundamentalist christian doctrine divide your country to the point where even from over here you can feel the hate between the left and right growing.<br>How much longer can you guys live off your reputation before everyone calls your loans in and you can\'t buy a new food let alone a new Hummer?<br><br>America sold out its children and its childrens children in the last 10 years. You got fat while the world starved.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711246">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711246" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711246" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711246" href="http://dpn.name/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">David Novakovic</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711246" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711246" class="dsq-comment-message">The vitriolic comments of red-necks who can\'t see the flaws in their own country are what the rest of the world sees. No wonder the rest of the world wants Obama.<br><br>Robert - I think it took a lot to say what you said. Well Done.<br><br>hi from Oz by the way ;)</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711247">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711247" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711247" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711247" href="http://www.volacci.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Ben Finklea</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711247" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711247" class="dsq-comment-message">Very interesting that you are pro-Nuke, a traditionally conservative standpoint. I for one agree with you - I just wish Obama did. There is currently no mention of nuclear power in the issues section of his website and only a passing mention during the most recent debate. I think it\'s the single most important issue in America today. With an abundance of electrical power, our dependance on fossil fuels would be cut in half in just a few years. Cheap nuclear power solves so many problems or makes them easier to solve - global warming, terrorism, pollution, economic growth, poverty, etc.<br><br>Everyone needs to read Power to Change the World. It will open your eyes on the risks/rewards of nuclear power.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711248">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711248" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711248" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711248" href="http://emailourmilitary.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Trish | eMail Our Military</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711248" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711248" class="dsq-comment-message">Great post. We owe so much to those Americans who came before us who fought for all the freedoms we have. Thanks to them we\'re still free today.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711249">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711249" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711249" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711249" href="http://www.twitter.com/jasonhargrove" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Jason Hargrove</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711249" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711249" class="dsq-comment-message">Really like this piece Robert.<br><br>Here\'s an interesting article that every American should read. Or rather, the entire Western civilization.<br><br>"In the New World Disorder, Loads of Rivals for America"<br><br><a href="http://tinyurl.com/6o4784" rel="nofollow">http://tinyurl.com/6o4784</a> (<a href="http://Time.com" rel="nofollow">Time.com</a>)<br><br>Time for us to all start working a bit smarter, methinks.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711250">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711250" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711250" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711250">brian</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711250" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711250" class="dsq-comment-message">i\'ll be honest this post was pretty lame, it made me feel as though i was reading the livejournal of a highschool \'anarchist.\'</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711251">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711251" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711251" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711251">m</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711251" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711251" class="dsq-comment-message">Am I crazy or did the post used to say "so we could be married in an Iranian ceremony"?<br><br>Currently it reads "Islamic ceremony" and IF it said that all along, then my first comment makes no sense, and please ignore it, thanks.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711231">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711231" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711231" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711231" href="http://sue.polinsky.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Sue</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711231" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711231" class="dsq-comment-message">Robert, speaking only for myself, I hope that being here this week and all the intense conversations we had (we=lots of people) and the heavy political (but not pro-this-candidate-or-that) discussions in part spurred you to write this. Even if this post was coming all along, I want to think that being here with all these folks who bleed red, white and blue first egged it on. Virtual high five for writing this; for precinct walking and for getting to know Greensboro, North Carolina, and letting us get to know you better at the same time. (BTW, this is one of those "roots" things.)</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711232">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711232" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711232" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711232" href="http://www.boldvisionconsulting.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Lynnelle</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711232" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711232" class="dsq-comment-message">It\'s so sad when one feels compelled to denounce their country for the sake of personal truth, honor, and values, whatever or whoever they may be. But when you think about it, that\'s exactly how \'we\' Americans came to be in the first place.  BLOGing is good; express yourself; raise issues; don\'t hide and bitch - do something. Get Out and Vote. Let\'s take our country back so it\'s cool being here again.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711233">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711233" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711233" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711233" href="http://nickyjameson.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Nicky</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711233" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711233" class="dsq-comment-message">I enjoyed your post Robert. I thought you were pretty brave writing it, though because as I suspected it\'s  brought all sorts of rather nasty remarks out of the blog woodwork. Now people "know" certain things about you you\'re going to lose readers and "followers."  But that\'s probably for the best. Keep up the posting, tech stuff, opinions, and all.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711234">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711234" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711234" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711234" href="http://www.pcanswer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Larry Magid</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711234" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711234" class="dsq-comment-message">Robert,<br><br>I agree with everything you said but I AM an American. That\'s what America is (should be) all about -- tolerance, multiculturalism, inclusion.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711235">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711235" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711235" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711235" href="http://kome-rocks.santacruzdreamz.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">lisa( kystorms)</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711235" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711235" class="dsq-comment-message">Hey Robert<br>First off let me say thank you for all the times in the last 2+ years you personally helped me understand the tech world via your posts. You may not have known you were helping me, but you did .<br>Second - what you just did in this post was the most American thing, the MOST patriotic thing you can do for our country. You show us that diversity and disagreements in politics only breed more strength for our country. As the mother of a son who serves in the US NAVY I am proud to know that there are still people who are willing to stand up for our right to Free Speech . You are helping to keep the ability to vote, to be Americans alive.<br><br>God Bless<br>:-)<br>ps- not an Obama supporter but not a McCain Supporter either, just an American who loves her country.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711230">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711230" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711230" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711230">Doug Swanson</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711230" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711230" class="dsq-comment-message">Oh boo freaking hoo...  What a martyr.<br><br>Grow up and stick to tech.  You sound like an idiot.<br><br>And what\'s with all the plumber references?  One guy asks a simple question of your candidate and you guys all go ape shit.  This is liberal tolerance?  This is accepting all viewpoints?  It was a simple question!<br><br>You think Bush was a fascist, just wait until dissenting opinion is REALLY being silenced.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711227">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711227" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711227" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711227">Ben</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711227" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711227" class="dsq-comment-message">Sounds to me like you are a Canadian.... Your more than welcome here...</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711228">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711228" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711228" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711228">j</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711228" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711228" class="dsq-comment-message">You ARE an American because you can believe all of those things, live peacefully in this country and not in a jail cell. Why do you have to use your nationality as a \'stick\' to beat others with your beliefs on your blog? If has nothing to do with being an American. Personally, I think you\'re wrong about most if it but I would never say you are not an American. You only feed the flame of discrimination with those statements.<br><br>By the way, why do you believe nuclear is \'better\' than coal? Define better. With coal, emissions can be controlled...what do you propose we do with nuclear waste?</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711229">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711229" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711229" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711229">TKH</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711229" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711229" class="dsq-comment-message">Blah blah blah.  I\'m with Christi -- I\'m unsubscribing.  I\'m doing this for the same reason I refuse to listen to Rush Limbaugh.  Just like Rush, your use of the platform (blogs in your case) as your righteous platform is a real turn-off.  I subscribed to you years ago b/c of the tech "talk".  Someday I hope you\'ll realize that having me read your blog is a privilege and should not be taken for granted.<br><br>I am American and I am voting with my unsubscribe!  I\'m sorry, I just can\'t make myself believe you\'re as great as you think you are...  Good bye!</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711225">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711225" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711225" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711225">MarkJ</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711225" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711225" class="dsq-comment-message">"I agree with everything you said but I AM an American. That’s what America is (should be) all about — tolerance, multiculturalism, inclusion."<br><br>That\'s nice until...<br><br>"tolerance" means "mandatory acceptance and promotion."<br><br>"multiculturalism" means "mandatory celebration of all cultures...except your own."<br><br>"inclusion" means "mandatory inclusion of people in religious and civic organizations...who are  openly hostile to the professed beliefs of those organizations."<br><br>Don\'t believe this is already happening? Try doing a NexisLexis search sometime or, better yet, talk to Joe the Plumber who\'s had his life turned upside down simply because he had the temerity to ask Our Tolerant, Multicultural and Inclusive Personal Savior a simple, pointed question about his proposed tax plan.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711226">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711226" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711226" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711226" href="http://falkayn.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Angus McDonald</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711226" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711226" class="dsq-comment-message">Wow, you yanks are sure confused about yourselves.<br><br>Interesting that you accept that the American brand is identified with the problems you highlighted. I would have expected that from Europeans - they\'re still smarting from WWII.<br><br>Almost the exact same thing could be said about I Am Not An Australian, or not. If you allow rednecks to define what an American is, then they will. Same over here.<br><br>I challenge you to do the opposite of that - find what Americans truly stand for that makes them appreciated in the world, much of which is NOT what you are saying you stand for, but probably resonates with you anyway. That would be a far more interesting post, and less partisan in its politics.<br><br>Angus</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711224">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711224" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711224" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711224">Tim</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711224" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711224" class="dsq-comment-message">I don\'t believe you\'re "not an American", but I do believe you don\'t understand wealth redistribution or socialism. Wealth redistribution isn\'t building roads or schools. I has nothing to do with helping people with healthcare. It\'s all about punishing achievement, fostering dependence on the government and placing as much power with the government as can be had. The "rich" already pay the lions share of taxes in this country. A full 30% pay zero federal income tax. The top 5% pay 60% of the taxes. The top 25% of taxpayers pay more than 85% of all taxes. Is that not enough?<br><br>One more thing about socialism. It IS unamerican. It flies in the face of limited government and private property rights.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711221">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711221" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711221" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711221" href="http://www.dayngrzone.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Dayngr</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711221" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711221" class="dsq-comment-message">I think it\'s awesome that people feel secure enough in our amazing country to speak their minds. Freedom os speech is a beautiful thing.<br><br>I do have one major issue though with your post, it\'s the part where you say <i>It’s enough to make me want to move to Australia</i>. America is great because of it\'s diversity and because great people fought to make it as amazing as it is. If you love it, stay and help usher in change. If you don\'t then maybe you <b>should</b> go elsewhere.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711222">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711222" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711222" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711222">Daqu40</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711222" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711222" class="dsq-comment-message">Great rant Robert,<br><br>Lovely irony.  I\'m also frustrated with how awful things have gotten.<br><br>However you are sorely off base on a number of your assertions and this is part of what fans the flames of division in this country.<br><br>For instance stem cell research is not unfunded by the federal government.  It is only off limits to research with any fetal material that was not from the lines identified in the policy.  Also fetal stem cell research is not illegal.  It simply can\'t be funded with federal money.  Any adult stem cell research is open to federal funding.  I\'m sure there many stem cell researchers out there now employed with federal dollars.  Besides we all know the whole stem cell debate is really the abortion debate.<br><br>I agree we have to government to regulate some things.  Life would be total chaos without the FAA or FCC.  However politicians and bureaucrats are just as capable of being greedy, wrong and overreaching as business people.  The whole Fannie and Freddie thing was known for years.  Our elected officials and those running those quasi government companies made sure it was a raging inferno before doing something about it.  So what makes the government any more capable doing things right?<br><br>I\'ve seen you do some great work touching on the political.  The interviews with the folks in Washington D.C. were great.  Keep up the good fight.  Keep shining a light on things.  It would be good for all of us if things changed so that you wouldn\'t even think of decrying you are not an american again.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711223">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711223" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711223" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711223">David</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711223" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711223" class="dsq-comment-message">Scoble, what with the snide remarks you respond with to your readers, I can\'t see why more people don\'t just flock here.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711220">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711220" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711220" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711220">Alissa Landsone</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711220" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711220" class="dsq-comment-message">Wow...I never thought I\'d see this day.  Robert Scoble has finally jumped the shark!  I wish you the best Robert, it\'s time to move on to others who are actually adding value to the conversation....</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711218">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711218" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711218" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711218">Brock</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711218" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711218" class="dsq-comment-message">Robert.. I\'ve been reading you for years and say your best technology blogging was while you were at MSFT.<br><br>These days it seems I need to move on... reading your political views and other rambles is really frustrating... definitely not going to be at the top of my home page after today.. there are many other informative blogs that I\'m happy to replace you with.<br><br>Where next for Scoble?  Hosting a talk show on NBC maybe?<br><br>OH... I\'m an American :)</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711219">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711219" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711219" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711219" href="http://Skbigm.googlepages.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Steve Kayser</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711219" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711219" class="dsq-comment-message">STUPIDITY ON STEROIDS<br><br>Wow. Nothing like blowing your credibility sky-high with this twittering stupidity on steroids.<br><br>NON-HATING HATER DISPUTES<br><br>You just called people that oppose your views as haters on Twitter. Why would you do that? I\'m not a hater, I\'ve followed you for a long time, but I totally disagree with you. I\'m a hater now? As are the others?<br><br>LACKS AN EVENT HORIZON<br><br>Are we haters because we disagree with your illogical, puerile, pedantic, solipsistic assertions or because of your black hole ego which lacks an event horizon?<br><br>MENTAL FLOSS-DROSS ALBATROSS<br><br>No wonder FastCompany is going down the tubes faster than fast- you\'re a colossal albatross of mental floss-dross dragging them down as quick as you can type.<br><br>BEAT IT<br><br>If, as you proclaim, you\'re NOT AN AMERICAN - beat it, go to another country where you can be NOT AN AMERICAN. I\'m sure we can, and will, raise money for your airfare, as long as you vow never to come back. My email address is at the bottom if you want to take me up on it.<br><br>WHEN IT REALLY MATTERS<br><br>I\'m glad some real Muslims corrected your post. Funny how you screwed up something as simple - yet so  important as that. Actually - not so funny-  when it really matters on a human level you display a perfectly shallow non-command of the facts.<br><br>YOUR EXCREMENTAL VISION NEEDS AN OPTORECTOMY<br><br>I\'ve read your posts for a while and never before detected a need for an optorectomy  (disconnection of optic nerve from rectum, to repair a crappy outlook on life).  But you\'re "I\'M NOT AN AMERICAN post displays a one-bit brain with a parity error. Check to make sure all your BYTES aren\'t odd.<br><br>HAVE YOU EVER LIVED IN EUROPE?<br><br>I have. Go live in a socialist Europe. They\'ll gladly take you as NOT AN AMERICAN. Wait in line for months to get your socialized health care. Redistribution of wealth is socialist - and a quick path down to a little town called Utopia (AKA Communism),  And, as we all know and has been proven throughout time, communism is great! Just look at their broken down societies.<br><br>Brave AMERICAN SOLDIERS throughout history have died for your right to be publicly stupid. And now that you are loudly exercising that right why not be publicly brave and bright - leave the country? Grow a pair. Use\'em.  Leave. We\'ll survive without your tech ramblings that make most people\'s heads explode anyway. On the downside - the DUCT TAPE FOR THE HEAD market might crash.<br><br>WISDUMB<br><br>And the views you espouse?  They\'re revolutionary? Full of WISDUM"? What the???<br><br>FAILS THE TURING TEST<br><br>Most "Americans" want the energy crisis solved, want health care for all, believe in separation of church and state. Believe in science, technology, equality and justice. You\'re cloaking yourself in what most Americans believe -- but then proclaim you\'re NOT AN AMERICAN? That even fails the Turing Turd test.<br><br>CEREBRUM VACCUOSO<br><br>You\'re "NOT AN AMERICAN." Well, I\'ll  agree you\'re not thinking like one. Americans usually have some semblance of logic built on a foundation of facts and eventually try to come to right and reasonable conclusions. Your little rant is, at best, sophomoric on a 2nd grade level, PT Barnum-ese, absurdly illogical and full of pampered-punk pompousness.<br><br>YOUR BAROMETER<br><br>It is, however, a lot like a barometer. Big vacuum at the top.<br><br>This is a great country.  Because of that you\'ve flourished. More power to you.  You can spout your 7 cans short of a 6-pack, smoke don\'t reach the top-of-your-chimney, parallel mind, serial world view.  It\'s your right.<br><br>As an American. But you say you\'re NOT AN AMERICAN. So ....<br><br>Be Brave.<br><br>Be Proud.<br><br>Take a Stand.<br><br>If you\'re not an American -- Move to another country and blog all about it.<br><br>Best<br><br>Steve Kayser<br><br><a href="mailto:skbigm@gmail.com" rel="nofollow">skbigm@gmail.com</a><br>Http://www.twitter.com/stevekayser</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711211">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711211" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711211" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711211">Gary</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711211" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711211" class="dsq-comment-message">I\'ve just removed you from my RSS subscriptions: since the days when you had insight into Microsft and the tech world, you\'ve become less and less relevant.  the politial ramblings and the rest of has become unberable.  I can\'t remember the last time I read more than the headline of one of your posts let alone saved or shared it.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711212">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711212" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711212" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711212">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711212" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711212" class="dsq-comment-message">"I believe that SOME wealth should be redistributed from rich people to other places to improve our society. Like paying for schools, building roads, or even helping all people get access to health care. To me that seems fair because it’s our system that enabled people to build wealth. "<br><br>OK Robert, put your money where your mouth is... Please cut a check of half your net worth to the government to redistibute as they see fit. When I see that, then I will believe this is how you really feel. Sell your wife\'s BMW of yours. Sell your home. Empty your childrens college fund. Today. I want to read about it tomorrow. Put up or shut up.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711213">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711213" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711213" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711213" href="http://roget.biz/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">thierry do Brasil</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711213" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711213" class="dsq-comment-message">Don\'t you think that we all live on earth. Nobody is neither American, nor French, Brazilian neither. I am an earthian, so we all are.<br><br>First of all. What is an American. Somebody who lives in America, or lives in in the United States? Are shall you start calling your self I am not an United Statian!</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711112">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711112" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711112" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711112">davemall</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711112" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711112" class="dsq-comment-message">You need to read Ann Coulter\'s books so that you can get your head screwed on straight Robert.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711113">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711113" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711113" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711113" href="http://www.douglaskarr.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Douglas Karr</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711113" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711113" class="dsq-comment-message">If you really cared about those less fortunate than us, you would do everything in your power to stop the government from taking care of them.  They\'ve done a stellar job all along, right?  Social security, veterans affairs, welfare, Freddie and Fannie... show me one thing that they\'ve not screwed up!<br><br>I want the government out of my home, out of my bedroom, out of my pocket book, and out of my life.  The last 8 years have been government out of control, screwing up everything.  Now you want the next 4 years of someone promising to do more.<br><br>Amazing.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711214">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711214" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711214" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711214">lane h</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711214" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711214" class="dsq-comment-message">Hell truly has frozen over. I find myself in near complete agreement with Scoble.<br><br>I\'m an eleventh generation American with dual citizenship to a country that\'s considered a "social democracy". I\'ve lived equal parts of my life in both countries. I\'ve seen the best and the worst that both had to offer. America could learn alot from such countries that offer, in exchange for higher taxes, free education, free to extremely affordable healthcare and other services. We pay high taxes here and get next to nothing. People with health insurance go bankrupt here. You *are* your credit rating. The rich get richer and hey, if you fuck up, the taxpayers will bail your ass out.<br><br>Any American who drives on public highways and bridges, takes books out from the library, sends their child to public school, visits a park or calls 911 when they need a cop or a fireman enjoys the benefits of socialism.  Unamerican? Evil? Don\'t use them.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711215">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711215" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711215" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711215" href="http://wildcabbage.net" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Eyebee</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711215" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711215" class="dsq-comment-message">I agreed with more in Robert\'s article that I\'ve heard from anyone in either of the campaigns.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711216">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711216" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711216" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711216">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711216" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711216" class="dsq-comment-message">BTW, When are you going to start thinking for yourself?</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711217">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711217" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711217" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711217">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711217" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711217" class="dsq-comment-message">One more thing, I am unsubscribing from you - not so much that I disagree with your viewpoint which you are entitled to (even though you never gave any thought to the comments that urged you to do more research before did another one of these posts),  it is that I can no longer trust you or your content or that of your employer, now that I know you have a major political axe to grind. It is a shame too, I\'ve been reading you for years and years.  My Fast Company subscription ran out about a month ago and the renewal card was sitting here to remind be to re-up.. I just pitched it to the pail. Goodbye Robert, I wish you well.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711209">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711209" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711209" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711209">John</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711209" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711209" class="dsq-comment-message">I will pray for you Robert.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711210">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711210" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711210" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711210" href="http://www.oxhornbrandmovies.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Oxhorn</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711210" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711210" class="dsq-comment-message">Scoble: My old college professors told me I wasn\'t a real American. My Democratic friends say my beliefs are un-American. Everyone on the internet says I\'m un-American. Who\'s in power is irrelevant--if you can play this "pity-me" game, so can I, because ALL people think that those who don\'t believe like they do are  "un-American". Republicans do not hold exclusive claim to this bigotry. To deny this inherent bias in all Americans is just being blind.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711208">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711208" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711208" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711208">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711208" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711208" class="dsq-comment-message">I just can\'t let this go. So your argument is that if I disagree with one of your bullet points, then I am calling you Un-American. So in essence you are giving me the virtual finger for having a different viewpoint for which you applaud the Constitution for allowing in your first bullet point?<br><br>You are so out of your element here bud.<br><br>BTW anyone that follows politics knows Powell is not a conservative. So trying to use him to validate your arguments is very very weak.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711207">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711207" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711207" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711207">davemall</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711207" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711207" class="dsq-comment-message">Hey Robert - My hero is Steve Jobs. I truly admire the man. The products his company produces set the standard for other companies to shoot for. He is truly my hero.<br><br>However, he\'s not perfect. He put Al Gore on Apple\'s Board of Directors which I found completely nauseating. I wouldn\'t put Al Gore in charge of the local PTA.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711204">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711204" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711204" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711204">danconover</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711204" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711204" class="dsq-comment-message">Great post. Really enjoyed talking with you this weekend.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711205">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711205" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711205" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711205">Bill</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711205" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711205" class="dsq-comment-message">Robert, I fear you\'ve jumped the shark with this post. Your frustration and fear is permeating your every post.<br><br>The simple fact is that you are American. Isn\'t it great to live in a place where you can express your views as such? It\'s very likely the political change you want will occur in a few short weeks. Why aren\'t you happy?<br><br>May I suggest that you take a vacation and come back in 2009 with a fresh attitude and outlook.<br><br>P.S. I miss your focus on technology and technological issues.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711201">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711201" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711201" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711201">torabora</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711201" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711201" class="dsq-comment-message">Gee, millions of Americans gave their lives defending freedom so you could cutely repeat "I am not an American". I get it. You are not an American. You certainly are a first class ass though.<br><br>Here is some free advice, leave America forever and don\'t let the door hit you in the ass. There are hundreds waiting to get in here so hurry up and make room.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711202">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711202" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711202" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711202" href="http://www.applematters.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Chris Howard</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711202" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711202" class="dsq-comment-message">Robert, rather than being a human, you should think of yourself as a citizen, like all of us, a citizen of planet earth.<br><br>We can no longer live our insular, localized lives.<br><br>The actions of the USA of the last eight years have had a profound effect on the rest of the world. Depending on what side of the fence you sit politically, you can argue whether those have been good or bad.<br><br>But the point is, and whether its the invasion of Iraq or the recent financial disasters, everyone can see the influence across the globe, and how that shows we are all citizens of one community.<br><br>Therefore, you aren\'t American anymore, I aren\'t Australian. These are simply labels. We are all citizens of one home, one globe, one community, and we have to ensure the actions we take do the right thing by our home. And that comes right down to how we vote, and why we should vote.<br><br>In the course of human history, this election, whichever way it goes, will have a significant effect.<br><br>I suspect that one side of politics in the US still lives in America. We had the same problem here (in Australia) until last year, when we made the change.<br><br>As long as we taunt people as being unAmerican or unAustralian, we will continue to do damage economically, socially and environmentally to our home.<br><br>When we can call someone\'s behaviour or opinions "unEarthian", then we\'ll know we\'re on the right track.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711203">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711203" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711203" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711203">Reginald Swain</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711203" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711203" class="dsq-comment-message">If you are for socialism, truly you are unAmerican. You are supporting a system which cannot be implemented under out Constitution and requires a widespread infringement of personal liberty. Socialism is Slavery - every single socialist is either a wanna-be slaver or a slave to the government.<br><br>Socialism is slavery, and every single slaver is Hostis Humani Generis.<br><br>You want socialism? You want war. You want civil war without limits if you try to tear down the Constitution any more than has already been done. Socialism requries the destruction of personal liberty. Socialism birthed Naziism - birthed Communism - between them they murdered over 130 million of their own people and murdered tens of millions more since their inception. Yeah, that\'s un-American, chump. You better believe it.<br><br>You say you want stem cell research, but you really don\'t. You want Embryonic stem cell research because that way you get to murder children in the womb and be paid handsomely for offending people you hate - Christians and others - those who believe in their faith and don\'t convert for convenience\'s sake (unlike you).<br><br>Stem cells from ovaries and testes? That\'s fine with everyone from both sides of the political spectrum, works, and doesn\'t cost a life - but you are fixated on stem cells from murdered children so you can pretend your political opponents are "evil" and hurt them deeply at the same time. But you steep youself in bigotry to ignore facts and push a lie.<br><br>You ascribe horrific tendencies to your political opponents and ignore the fact that no opponent of ILLEGAL immigration has anything but admiration for LEGAL immigration - you pretend otherwise and in so doing, show again your inability to discern the truth. You show contempt for those who show respect for your country (legal immigrants), and protect those that spit on our laws (illegal immigrants) .<br><br>As for border enforcement, you\'re against it.  A country that does not control its borders is not sovereign. And that\'s what you really want - uncontrolled borders, a surrendering of our sovereignty - a destruction of our country.<br>Hoping to destroy our country\'s sovereignty by surrendering our borders is outright despicable.<br><br>The rest of your sorry screed is filled with twists, lies, and self-deception. You need to believe that your opponents are the same as the ridiculous stereotypes you hold in your hate-filled heart. I pity you.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711200">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711200" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711200" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711200">Bryce Raley</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711200" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711200" class="dsq-comment-message">You going to regret this one in a few days, if you don\'t already. From the logic of your email, you believe we should separate our politics from our faith among other things. Well you should have two blogs- one where you comment with your opinions- and this one where you stick to covering tech stuff. You\'re very good at what you do, but you just alienated some of your "tribe", by ranting about your political opinions.<br><br>"He who believes religion and politics don\'t mix, understands neither one." Who said it? How about Mahatma Ghandi.<br><br>You\'re certainly not Unamerican for believing whatever you choose to believe and even by discussing it. That is very American. However, I\'m sure you would be intolerant of my beliefs because they don\'t shore up with yours. I\'m a pro life Libertarian and evangelical Christian. So to you that probably translates to bigot.<br><br>On your socialist comments. Take a trip to Sweden. They are spiritually bankrupt and have a high rate of suicide. They fly to the UK for serious medical procedures. Their tax rates are near 65% plus a 20% VAT. I\'ve traveled Sweden from east to west and have helped host swedes here in the states.  They are amazing people. I love spending time with them. Not a lot of new business in Sweden- basically none. The employment law is nuts. Not a lot of people banging down the door to get into Sweden and these other socialist European countries you speak highly of. If they are so great, I\'d apply for citizenship. I love people who praise other countries from the comfort and freedom of US soil. Our wonderful republic is only 200 years old. That\'s a small flicker of light in the 6000 years of recorded history. It wouldn\'t take much to put that flicker out. We\'re heading down that road with our big government, declining freedoms and loss of our moral compass. Good morals is good economics. Don\'t believe it- do business with crooks and tell me how it goes.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711199">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711199" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711199" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711199">Ted</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711199" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711199" class="dsq-comment-message">Poor idea, worse execution.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711198">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711198" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711198" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711198" href="http://www.stealthmode.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">francinehardaway</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711198" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711198" class="dsq-comment-message">I love you, Robert.  By the current definition of American, I\'m not one either. Divorces, affairs, paying for a teen-aged foster child\'s abortion, and  willingness to pay taxes for things like education and health care for others...they all disqualify me.  Those narrow definitions are what get us into trouble.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711197">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711197" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711197" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711197">Alz</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711197" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711197" class="dsq-comment-message">I think, IN GENRERAL, you are wrong. You are entitled to you ropinion, of course, but you preach "tolerance" and yet you\'re telling people how to do things.  I agree with some points, but it would take a conversation to go through all of the issues.<br><br>On the other hand, I will point to one article on the problems of Europe.  They are rather severe. I have a friend who was in Belgium for a few years with his family and he couldn\'t wait to get out.<br><br>This article explains why and probably explains why some countries are moving away from what some people call "Modern Liberalism".<br><br><a href="http://www.pvv.nl/index.php?option=com_content&amp;task=view&amp;id=1310&amp;Itemid=1" rel="nofollow">http://www.pvv.nl/index.php?option=com_content&...</a></div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711196">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711196" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711196" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711196" href="http://www.consultingpulse.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Daryl Mather</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711196" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711196" class="dsq-comment-message">Well said, good points. Come down to Aussie mate - we do have the right idea!!<br><br>They don\'t call it "The Lucky Country" for nothing.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711195">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711195" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711195" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711195">angsuman</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711195" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711195" class="dsq-comment-message">Your post really touched me and I will say that rarely happens. I too am not an American and I happen to agree with most of your thoughts.<br><br>I believe in pluripotent stem cell research because it has the potential to cure the currently incurable diseases and bring happiness and joy to millions or people worldwide.  No longer will we have to suffer or see our close ones suffer continuously and without hope for cure. Never before in the history of science has one technology offered so much hope and promise in alleviating the world of diseases. if that is not God\'s will then I don\'t know what is. But frankly I don\'t have a hotline with God like apparently Jr. Bush has. I just feel that what is good for humanity and living beings at large should be in accordance with the will of any good being, whether is omnipotent or not.<br><br>BTW: I created an anonymous survey ( <a href="http://bit.ly/uspresidentialsurvey" rel="nofollow">http://bit.ly/uspresidentialsurvey</a> ) to know people\'s choice on the next US president. Would you like to participate?<br>You can find the results so far in the link associated with this comment.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711192">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711192" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711192" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711192" href="http://www.alisvantage.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Quli</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711192" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711192" class="dsq-comment-message">good post made for a great reading of mine</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711193">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711193" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711193" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711193">smartminion</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711193" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711193" class="dsq-comment-message">Wow.  I guess maybe I\'m too conservative or just a brainwashed American or something but I took this as ridiculously smug and petty.  I live in NC and realize what cronyism, high tax and poor executive leadership (by both parties) causes.  I doubt you got much insight into in your visit.<br><br>One articulate, compassionate, hopeful liberal comes along and folks like you just suck it all in and get emotional.  You forget that this isn\'t new.  Behind all these idealistic, positive promises is the same group of (mostly) corrupt, self-serving people that will gladly take your vote, your money and your freedoms all because you don\'t like Bush but don\'t remember Carter.  I\'m disappointed at all the blind populism without regard to history in diatribes like these.<br><br>Personally, I suggest a "reboot" - vote ALL the incumbents out, implement term-limits, cut federal budgets by at least 30%, implement a fair/flat tax.  That should be enough to get things back on track.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711194">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711194" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711194" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711194" href="http://www.biketoworkbarb.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Barb Chamberlain</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711194" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711194" class="dsq-comment-message">Nice post, Robert.<br><br>Obviously a lot of the posts here are from people who will not ever acknowledge the extent to which the Republican Party has an overt campaign of using language to demonize all who disagree with them as somehow un-American.<br><br>Perhaps Newt Gingrich\'s 1996 GOPAC memo will refresh their memories: <a href="http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article4443.htm" rel="nofollow">http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/articl...</a>.<br><br>Note that the word "taxes" is on the bad list. As several people have pointed out here, taxes are the price of a civil society: roads, schools, garbage removal and disposal, public health, and more.<br><br>Suggested reading for those who are interested in a content analysis of the Bush White House and its applications of "political fundamentalism": David Domke\'s "God Willing: Political Fundamentalism in the White House, the \'War on Terror,\' and the Echoing Press."<br><br>Warning: Very scholarly. As in, he did the research and demonstrates how Bush used the easily understood dichotomies so common to fundamentalists of all kinds-- good/evil, with us/with the terrorists--to dominate the public discourse and media coverage in the wake of 9/11.<br><br>@BarbChamberlain</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711135">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711135" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711135" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711135">Trooper</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711135" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711135" class="dsq-comment-message">If your not an American, then move to Canada, they have national health care. We don\'t like socialism here.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711136">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711136" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711136" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711136">TommyC</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711136" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711136" class="dsq-comment-message">Robert you are way off the mark. You need a vacation.<br>Are you insinuating that if someone does not agree with one or more of your points, they are Not An American?<br><br>The transfer of wealth argument is PATHETIC and is one of the most UnAmerican things that can be suggested.<br><br>Early on I did miss your focus on technology and technological issues, but now you just rant nonsense. You may win the battle, but will ultimately lose the war. You are blind and lost. Pathetic.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711137">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711137" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711137" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711137">Jeremy</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711137" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711137" class="dsq-comment-message">Guessing the FBI is now reading your blog, regularly...</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711138">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711138" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711138" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711138" href="http://considerations.wordpress.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">sun secrets</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711138" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711138" class="dsq-comment-message">My Dear Mr. Scoble.<br>I/ve monitored  your works for a very long time, and it is you, and Shel\'s book, along with Mrs. Blood that got me at  the ripe age of 40 something blogging, something that was not part of my "Telecom" culture.<br>Your thoughts and expression truly reflect that you are an American in the sense that your psyche reflects the vision that your founding fathers charted for this nation.<br>Perhaps those that have brought this great nation to dought itself aren\'t Americans. You, in my humble opinion, are indeed an American./antonis hontzeas</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711139">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711139" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711139" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711139" href="http://www.new.facebook.com/profile.php?id=27210707" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Jesse Waite</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711139" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711139" class="dsq-comment-message">Jeremy: LMAO.<br><br>As for the dudes who left negative comments, I wonder what country they think they have existed in for their whole lives.  I believe in socialized goods, you know: good roads, police, firemen, the postal service, public schools, universities, scientific research so we don\'t drive our own species off a cliff, etc.  I too am not American.  If only I could find a way not to use them, then I can be American.<br><br>Has anyone seen my dog Plurality?  I feel like beating something up, or meaner yet, shouting the implicitly violent logic of binary-reductionism at it.  Was that a joke?  Dammit---not an American.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711140">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711140" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711140" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711140">Mark</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711140" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711140" class="dsq-comment-message">"Guessing the FBI is now reading your blog, regularly…"<br><br>Oh please...ya the FBI better get all over Scoble....he is a serious threat to homeland security. Give me a break. Some people take this sh@t way too seriously. The article was a creative way to get an opinion across and it gets good rating. Go read the Blogging 101 guide book....be edgy, be controversial....it gets traction.<br><br>I commend the dude for speaking his mind...tech geek blogger or not, democrat or not.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711141">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711141" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711141" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711141">Dawn</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711141" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711141" class="dsq-comment-message">When it comes to writing a business blog, I don\'t see the value of having political rants.  It\'s a polarized country.  Why turn off half your potential audience?  I don\'t like seeing political crap from either side when I\'m reading a blog that\'s supposedly about something else.  Haven\'t we gotten enough already?</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711142">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711142" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711142" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711142" href="http://www.chernow.org/blog" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Adam</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711142" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711142" class="dsq-comment-message">I guess I must not be an American \'cause I think.<br><br>-Adam</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711143">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711143" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711143" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711143" href="http://scobleizer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Robert Scoble</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711143" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711143" class="dsq-comment-message">I find it interesting to see the diversity of opinions here.<br><br>But some really missed the point I was trying to make, which is that if you try to talk about the issues you just get called names. Note that I didn\'t call anyone names. I called myself names, if anything. I just put out my point of view on the issues.<br><br>But many people here decided to call names. I think that says more about them than it says about me.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711144">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711144" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711144" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711144" href="http://scobleizer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Robert Scoble</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711144" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711144" class="dsq-comment-message">Dawn: yes, indeed, why talk about the issues? Why not take a stand.<br><br>Yes, my blog should just be press releases that make everyone feel good.<br><br>Sorry, that\'s really lame. And if 50% get pissed off, maybe that is a good thing!!!!</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711145">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711145" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711145" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711145">Terry</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711145" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711145" class="dsq-comment-message">Stand back!!!<br>I feel a spray coming on!! This is what America must do to join the real world.<br>First compusory lifetime voter registration and like Australia compulsory voting. (get them all off their fat asses).<br>Next citizen initiated referendum at election time.<br>A good dose of socialism for the common good.<br>Abolish all religions . none of them are true.<br>Although the eye of a needle seems appropiate for the american version.<br>Tax share turnover - abolish the rest.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711146">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711146" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711146" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711146">Dawn</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711146" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711146" class="dsq-comment-message">Taking a stand is great.  But what\'s wrong with picking the hills you stand on?  Why do we have to step over political crap everywhere we walk?<br><br>You "take a stand" on Twitter and on FF all the time.  Why do you have to do it here, too?  I don\'t think it\'s lame to suggest that there is a time and place for politics and that it need not be 24/7 everywhere we go.<br><br>Endlessly yelling at each other and pissing each other off doesn\'t accomplish anything.  Quite the opposite, I\'d say.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711147">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711147" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711147" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711147" href="http://livepaola.wordpress.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">livepaola</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711147" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711147" class="dsq-comment-message">Colin Powell definitely does not sound like an American. For starters, he uses the word "intellectual" far too heavily.<br><a href="http://livepaola.wordpress.com/2008/10/20/general-powell-obama-endorsement-next-time-go-easy-on-the-i-word-please/" rel="nofollow">http://livepaola.wordpress.com/2008/10/20/gener...</a></div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711148">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711148" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711148" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711148">Robert</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711148" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711148" class="dsq-comment-message">Well I\'m not sure I agree or disagree.  However I believe that was your aim with this post.  It\'s not so much where you stand, but why.  Encourage people to think, question their decisions and beliefs.<br><br>Living in South Africa I\'ve seen what the blind following masses are capable of.  If anyone is going to make a stand... at least know what it is that you are standing for.<br><br>Fascinating post, even more interesting are the comments.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711149">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711149" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711149" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711149">jonas</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711149" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711149" class="dsq-comment-message">Kudos Robert!</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711150">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711150" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711150" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711150" href="http://www.socialmediaplex.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Social Media Marketing Blog</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711150" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711150" class="dsq-comment-message">Kudos Robert, I\'m not American too ..</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711151">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711151" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711151" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711151" href="http://www.kevitivity.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Kevitivity</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711151" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711151" class="dsq-comment-message">The problem with wealth redistribution is that it\'s in direct contrast with  the American values of self reliance, self determination and self respect.  These are values the Democratic party of the 50\'s used to uphold.  These are also the values that have kept America competitive for so long.  What is hard work and taking chances worth if the US "overlord" is there to wipe your butt and take care of you, cradle to the grave?  These values came from our respect for the human spirit - and America\'s essence IS human spirit.  The nanny-state would only hinder that spirit and create slaves of the state.<br><br>There are more problems with wealth redistribution - namely it penalizes the successful while being anti-capitalist.  Furthermore, in America, people don\'t tend to stay in the lower 40% of our economy.   Few Americans work minimum wage jobs all of their lives.<br><br>Economically, wealth redistribution is a disaster any way you look at it.  History anyone?</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711152">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711152" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711152" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711152" href="http://www.guiwald.info/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Guiwald</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711152" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711152" class="dsq-comment-message">Steve Kayser said: "I have. Go live in a socialist Europe. They’ll gladly take you as NOT AN AMERICAN. Wait in line for months to get your socialized health care."<br><br>In which European country did you live? In France or in Germany, you just don\'t need to pay the doctor when you need to go there (and I tried in Italia, it\'s the same). You just present your health card, and you have nothing else to do.<br>In Germany, you don\'t pay your medicine more than 5 euros, in France, you just don\'t pay them: you present your prescription, your health card, and you get your drugs.<br><br>I don\'t say social system is the best, but I\'m sure a US a bit more social would be better. An Europe a bit more liberal too, I guess.<br><br>@ Robert Scoble: You\'re American, but with a different vision that the common one. And I\'m sure your country need people like you to be able to change things, and to make this land a better place to live.<br><br>PS : Sorry for my bad english.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711153">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711153" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711153" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711153">ma</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711153" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711153" class="dsq-comment-message">Hey scobble<br><br><br>1- if you can think freely and expose your though: because you are American<br>2- like many American muslims you married in us  freely with the woman you want...because you are american<br>3- if you convert to the religion you want it\'s because you are American..go to Iran and try to convert to christian<br>4- Go to a muslim country and look how do they shoot at immigrants..if you can tell your opinion..it\'s because you are American<br><br>what a shi###  post you had written<br><br>take care</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711154">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711154" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711154" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711154">Jeroen</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711154" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711154" class="dsq-comment-message">hear hear!</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711156">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711156" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711156" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711156">Ben Israel</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711156" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711156" class="dsq-comment-message">Hi Robert, I\'m not an American. I\'m observing the U.S. elections here from Malaysia. And I think most American\'s are so blinded by the politics that they miss the issues that are truly important. Most non-Americans I know, agree with me.<br><br>I truly don\'t understand how people can vote for a warmonger, vote against helping the poorer sections of economy, vote against healthcare that is not dependent on greedy insurance and pharmaceutical companies, vote for giving more money to Big Oil, vote for placing more guns in the hands of dangerous people, and.... vote for SARAH PALIN. I truly don\'t understand.<br><br>I do wish you the best of luck. The gut feeling is that come November 4, the Joe\'s will pick McCain and then whine for another 8 years.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711157">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711157" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711157" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711157" href="http://www.igorthetroll.com/blog" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">igorthetroll</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711157" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711157" class="dsq-comment-message">I like what you say but you need to practise what you preach!<br><br>Why not unblock me on Friend Feed and Twitter and I will give you the respect that you deserve.<br><br>Robert, we all have differences in opinions, learn how to respect others!</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711158">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711158" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711158" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711158">Bast</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711158" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711158" class="dsq-comment-message">Hi,<br>Good post about american facts, and great timing of course!<br>I\'m not an American, I\'m from Europe and I just want to bring some details to what you say about it.<br>First of all, I\'m glad you consider Europe as a country but it is not.<br>Considering that, even if from your point of view it\'s the same, believe me that there are great differences between European countries.<br>Second of all, when you talk about Europe and socialism, believe me, on this one: you are an american! Why? Because you take all the european countries and put them in the same case based on some stuff you may have heard (health care, public school...), again, economic systems can be very different within Europe...<br>I\'m french and we are not drived by a socialist government. If you take Sweden, here you have your dreamed economic system called "social-democrate".<br>Finally @Bryce Raley: please don\'t throw figures out of context. Suicide rate\'s just "normal" in Sweden, urban legend to say it\'s higher because of seasons/work/tax rates. The highest are Japan and France (because we are NEVER happy) :)<br>Swedish are paying a lot of taxes but what you didn\'t said is: best health care system and accessible to everyone, financial help during studies in decent buildings (study and living), and the salaries are much higher than other european countries.<br>Maybe, instead of checking the Business criteria, you can check what make most of people happy of living: decent salary, very high employment rate, clean cities (have you ever visited Stockholm?), close to nature...Well, Sweden may not be the first economic country in the world but aside the cold, it\'s an example for a lot of other ones.<br><br>Good post anyway, even if what you should have said is: I\'m not a redneck... ;)</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711159">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711159" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711159" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711159">trueRevelator</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711159" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711159" class="dsq-comment-message">"I\'m not an American, I\'m Canadian"... last time I checked, Canada and USA were in the same continent or has the polar meltdown already changed the shape of the continent?<br><br>and please, somebody explains me why TommyC says "The transfer of wealth argument is PATHETIC"?<br><br>That happens in many countries in Europe and the living standards over there are higher than in USA. May be the transfer of wealth is not the only reason, but it plays a main role.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711160">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711160" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711160" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711160">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711160" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711160" class="dsq-comment-message">"But many people here decided to call names. I think that says more about them than it says about me."<br><br>I don\'t think they missed the point. We get that poor Robert is being called names - even though this post is doing exactly the same thing in a backhanded way. However you say the comments are interesting. Please tell me why if you believe socialism is a noble cause, why is there no response to my request for you to cut a check for half your net worth to the goverment to so they can spend it as they see fit? And why don\'t you take the next step and ask the the government what they want you to do for an occupation. Perhaps you could better server society as something else that has nothing to do with technology? After all why should you have a choice of occupation if it does not serve the society well? If the world can go forward without Russert, surely it can go foward without another interview from Fast Company? Or better yet, maybe Fast Company can be government run??? Surely the government can figure out what reading best suits the society as a whole???</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711161">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711161" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711161" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711161">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711161" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711161" class="dsq-comment-message">You see Robert posters like me and some of others have tried to engage you in dialog through our comments. Because it seems that what you have done here is take a page from the Carville book - what you do is design phrases to put people with a different viewpoint or curiousity on the defense - phrases like "You don\'t have a heart if you don\'t support universal healthcare" etc.. Its the same strategy with this post - I am calling you unamerican for having XYZ viewpoint. And this is not conducive to intelligent dialog. What you have done here is revealed yourself to be an elitist.  The tone seems to be that if you do disagree with me then you are an ignorant cro-mag who resorts to name calling. Now onto the big picture. Political parties love this. Another convert. Another fool and his money soon to be parted. Because you see Robert the game is this: Politicians fool you into believing that you and he/she believe the same thing. And they do, if the money is right.  The goverment no longer represents the people as evidenced most recently by the bailout bill.  Its all about living off the tax payer, sitting at mahonagy desks with leather chairs, pontificating on the senate/house floor by day and sipping congnac and taking checks at night.  You\'ve been taken. And you don\'t even know it.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711134">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711134" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711134" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711134">scottbourne</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711134" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711134" class="dsq-comment-message">Brilliant Robert and here\'s my reaction to the comments you received.<br><br>About the people who unsubscribe to your stream because you dare to espouse your political beliefs - good riddance. This recently happened to me and during the purge I got rid of lots of assholes who don\'t deserve access to the free information I pass out every day. And within a few days after the purge, I actually had MORE followers. ANYONE who would unfollow or unsubscibe because of your political beliefs is UNAMERICAN. It\'s very possible to trust, respect, work with, buy from, play with, associate with, be friends with and gain knowledge from people we disagree with.<br><br>And for those who say anyone who doesn\'t kiss the republican ring should leave America - screw that. Those of us who love America need to stay here and rescue it from the likes of Karl Rove. I plan to stay and fight.<br><br>Again - I love your post. And the courage and spirit with which it was written. And I\'d consider it an honor to be attacked by that UNAMERICAN right wing asshole Michelle Malkin.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711266">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711266" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711266" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711266" href="http://doncrowley.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">dc crowley</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711266" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711266" class="dsq-comment-message">wait til after the election. If McCain - Palin win it, then yes you are in trouble. But you can\'t do what you are doing from any other base in the world. No other kid could have grown up anywhere else in the world in the 70\'s like you did. America made you and heck it\'s OK. Still I can\'t talk. I left a religiously over zealous Ireland in the early 80\'s. Once I left the place picked up a little ;)<br><br>I notice how intolerant the far right can be. Maybe it\'s time to be an intolerant liberal and stop their nonsense.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711267">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711267" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711267" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711267" href="http://www.twitter.com/bryanbro" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Bryan Bro.</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711267" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711267" class="dsq-comment-message">Sorry, I get your point but this came off as really weird.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711116">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711116" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711116" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711116" href="http://bethgranter.wordpress.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Beth Granter</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711116" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711116" class="dsq-comment-message">Awesome post.  One thought though - as a self-proclaimed socialist feminist who feels feminism has a bad reputation, I feel it\'s important to reclaim the concept and mould it to what I believe.  Similarly, as a non-stereotypical female, I refuse to be thought of as an exception when I show traditionally male accomplishments (e.g. logical thinking, climbing trees...) - as a female exhibiting these characteristics, I am redefining \'feminine\'.  Perhaps you can keep your views, tell the world you ARE American, and thereby change people\'s view of what constitutes an American.<br><br>In response to people criticising you for talking politics on a tech blog, to refer to the quote \'the personal is political\', there should be no platform that is unsuitable for talking politics, because it affects every area of our lives and our existence.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711115">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711115" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711115" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711115">whoindatgarden</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711115" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711115" class="dsq-comment-message">So there are comments praising the lad and then there are those who wish he was aborted by his mom or does not live in this country.. Shows the temperament of the readers extreme views. At irrational behavior as the ability to think has been clearly lost.  What Mr.Scoble expressed in his writings is a personal view based on his observations.<br>What most people who are so virulent in their attack are missing is that they are just as angry at their situation but don\'t have the ability to accept responsibility for the malaise we have as they are also the ones who have supported it without thinking.<br>America has for the last 40 years been at work dismantling the very structures we have fought hard to erect since the 1930\'s.<br>Before the 1930\'s we had a very stoic class system that was basically the Rich versus the Poor.<br>People will forget that there was no Minimum wage, there were no five day 40 hour work weeks, paid vacation, Occupational Safety etc etc.<br>We have had to fight very hard to get those basic things you take for granted.<br>The last forty years have been spent trying to strip slowly everything you have and take you back to the good old days of the 1920\'s.<br>To enable that process the American Businesses and European Businesses have a great partner the Chinese Communist Party which is able to provide the labor that is needed to produce the goods without any worker rights in place. This gives a very good bargaining power to the Businesses to dismantle all the things you have taken for granted all along, with the threat that if you don\'t accept they will move shop to China primarily.<br>So the last 40 years you have been comatose in your ability to think and have been sold this myth that Taxes, regulations and Government are the cause for your misery, that markets can do the best job for you and guess what they have, you have lost your ability to have any bargaining power and will accept whatever is thrown to you.<br>Sure lets blame one or the other party, but truly the blame lies with us people and for being unable to think and be drunk on crap.<br>If you want to change all this then wake up and start to THINK.<br>Instead of berating Scoble on how awful he is or not cuz he expressed his views, express yourself and THINK clearly.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711114">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711114" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711114" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711114">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711114" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711114" class="dsq-comment-message">dc.. Isn\'t the majority of America tolerant liberalism?</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711268">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711268" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711268" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711268">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711268" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711268" class="dsq-comment-message">after all, if you criticize Obama, you would never be painted a racists, would you?</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711269">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711269" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711269" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711269" href="http://friendfeed.com/susanbeebe" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Susan Beebe</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711269" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711269" class="dsq-comment-message">Wow, look at all the conversation this awesome post generated!!<br><br>Nice job Robert... I concur!!  Looks like we\'re gonna have to CHANGE this country; don\'t move.  I love America and want it to GROW up and face the music.<br><br>No more greed, self-centered-ness, lack of vision, or discipline.  We must adopt a completely different strategy going forward to better manage this rich and diverse country.  Not an easy task by any means.  Obama brings the best hope for this needed change.<br><br>Kudos for such a well thought-out post...brilliant!<br><br>Susan Beebe<br><a href="http://friendfeed.com/susanbeebe" rel="nofollow">http://friendfeed.com/susanbeebe</a></div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711270">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711270" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711270" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711270">wekempf</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711270" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711270" class="dsq-comment-message">This post is offensive.  Extremely.  I get your point, but it\'s wrong.  No sane person would make the claim that you\'re not American for any of the points you\'ve given, even if they don\'t agree with them.  You\'re insinuating that Republicans make that claim, but that\'s a flat out lie.  If *YOU* believe that\'s true, then maybe you should consider making your trite little "I\'m not American" saying true by leaving?<br><br>The rest of us sane folks, Democrats, Republicans, Libertarians, Green Party, Independents, Catholics, Jews, Atheists, and all the rest, would be a whole lot happier here without the attitude shown here.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711271">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711271" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711271" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711271">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711271" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711271" class="dsq-comment-message">"No more greed, self-centered-ness, lack of vision, or discipline. We must adopt a completely different strategy going forward to better manage this rich and diverse country. Not an easy task by any means. Obama brings the best hope for this needed change."<br><br>My goodness.. the naivete displayed here is mindboggling. Don\'t you realize the money machine behind Obama is laughing that this is too easy? Don\'t you know that inside the machine they say he is so self-satisified that all you have to do is stroke the ego and he\'ll do your bidding while thinking he is actually calling the shots? Don\'t you realize its the same on both sides?</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711272">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711272" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711272" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711272">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711272" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711272" class="dsq-comment-message">This is so futile. Both parties are one in the same... I label you unamerican, you label me racist etc.. etc... all the way laughing to the bank...and then you have Winer and Scoble... being used by the apparatus for the same purpose.. and they don\'t even know it.  They are getting their egos stroked for the \'great posts\' in the comments. They have been sucked into the machine and don\'t know it.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711273">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711273" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711273" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711273">scottbourne</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711273" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711273" class="dsq-comment-message">LOL people who said they are unsubscribing to you Robert are still hanging around and posting comments here.<br><br>"No wait - this time I am REALLY unsubscribing - REALLY I am - I mean it!"<br><br>LOL I love this shit.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711274">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711274" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711274" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711274">whoindatgarden</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711274" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711274" class="dsq-comment-message">Jeff Berlin, maybe he does know and guess what he is the one laughing all the way to the bank. You and I may post comments etc but it  is on his blog and the traffic he generates adds to his bottom line. So it is possibly calculated risk he took writing this post to generate even more traffic to his site.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711275">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711275" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711275" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711275">Christianity = Socialism...  J</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711275" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711275" class="dsq-comment-message">@ James from the UK:<br><br>Believe me, lines for free care are better than no care at all.<br><br>You have to wait for a CT scan.<br><br>Over here, without insurance, you just DIE.......  And then your family can\'t afford to bury you.  But of course, that\'s there own fault because they\'re poor -- they just don\'t work hard enough.<br><br>And hey, God loves Capitalists (or so the Right Wing would have us believe) despite universal healthcare, etc. being FAR more in line with actual Christian teachings....<br><br>They forget that there was one group even Jesus didn\'t like -- hypocrites and dogmatists.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711276">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711276" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711276" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711276">Joe Wharton</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711276" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711276" class="dsq-comment-message">Scoble:<br><br>I don’t know if you’re an American or not. What I do know is that 1) you didn’t have to insult my wife’s intelligence after she decided to unsubscribe to your blog (she did not say anything about your politics, just that she was tired of hearing politics on a technology blog- BTW that makes you very Non-Web 2.0); and 2) you didn’t have a video up as of this morning, even though you said in your response to my wife yesterday, “I’ll have a video of a tech startup up tonight”.<br><br>So, knowing those two things about you, I also know that you are 1) an asshole and 2) a liar. Good bye.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711277">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711277" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711277" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711277">Mike O.</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711277" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711277" class="dsq-comment-message">From an X - change fearing, X - bible beating, midwest farm raised redneck, X - bush backing, X - republican, and anti-Walmart consumer......<br><br>Thank you!!  I don\'t know what I am now, but it\'s better than what I was, and this release feeeels goooood.....<br><br>Live and let live.  I agree with Larry Magid, I thought this country was about the differences and how they worked together to make us better.  I agreed with the Afghanistan invasion, but drew the line with Bush\'s personal and oil crusade in Iraq,.  Our country isn\'t what is once was.  Since WWII we have been on a steady decline and now we have hit rock bottom.  I hate to disagree with my family, but it is time for new young inspiration.<br><br>While I didn\'t vote for Clinton, I have to admit that our country was the best I can remember in my lifetime.<br><br>It\'s time to educate and change.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711278">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711278" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711278" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711278">tom</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711278" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711278" class="dsq-comment-message">I\'m also voting with my "unsubscribe". I read this blog for tech industry news, not political diatribes. Having an opinion is most American, but I didn\'t think this was an opinion column.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711279">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711279" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711279" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711279" href="http://bloghh.wordpress.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Herschel</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711279" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711279" class="dsq-comment-message">Robert,<br>I have to say you know how to drive traffic - 144 comments. You hardly ever get that much attention on a "tech" only post.<br><br>You know, when I get into a discussion about American poltics with my friends I ask "If you were GOD, what top three things in America would you change and why?"<br><br>Care to give an answer?</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711280">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711280" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711280" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711280" href="http://hauntingthunder.wordpress.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Maurice</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711280" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711280" class="dsq-comment-message">BRAVO!<br><br>Now thats what i call nailing you colours to the mast :-)</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711281">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711281" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711281" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711281" href="http://blog.ecairn.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">dominic</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711281" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711281" class="dsq-comment-message">you sound very French to me :-)<br><br>So you sound Canadian to a Canadian, Brazilian to a Brazilian, Aussie to an Autralian and French to me... sounds like a good start.<br><br>Moving to problem solving ( that\'s american isn\'t it ?), why don\'t the non american part of the US join the EC :-)</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711282">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711282" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711282" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711282" href="http://junal.wordpress.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">junal</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711282" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711282" class="dsq-comment-message">Really enjoyed both writer and readers views....and i don\'t agree that a tech blogger cant talk about politics....</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711283">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711283" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711283" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711283" href="http://scobleizer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Robert Scoble</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711283" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711283" class="dsq-comment-message">Joe: I decided to get some sleep, I flew from North Carolina home yesterday and was dead tired when I got home. I\'m uploading the video now.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711284">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711284" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711284" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711284" href="http://scobleizer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Robert Scoble</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711284" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711284" class="dsq-comment-message">&gt;No sane person would make the claim that you’re not American for any of  the points you’ve given, even if they don’t agree with them.<br><br>I\'d agree with that, but at many rallies and in many talk shows lately I\'ve seen the points made that those who don\'t agree are "unAmerican." Oh, and Sarah Palin made that point too. So, I figured I\'d just have some fun with those who call the people on the other side who call names rather than discuss the issues. Of course Jon Stewart had a stronger set of words for Palin: <a href="http://www.weeklystandard.com/weblogs/TWSFP/2008/10/jon_stewart_to_sarah_palin_exp.asp" rel="nofollow">http://www.weeklystandard.com/weblogs/TWSFP/200...</a><br><br>Oh, and Joe, I guess you can\'t use Google anymore. After all Google\'s CEO just endorsed Obama. So unAmerican!</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711285">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711285" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711285" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711285">Court</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711285" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711285" class="dsq-comment-message">I am a Canadian, and know the healthcare in Canada for everyone is great, as long as you don\'t get sick.  Everyone with a serious illness that I know has gone down to the US to pay for healthcare to get treated (including my family members).  I think the grass is greener on the otherside complex is getting a little out of hand in the US.<br><br>I believe in equality of opportunity, not equality of outcome.  How do I tell a person paying 35% and $1M of their income they should pay more in tax when 40% of his countrymen don\'t pay tax?  Doesn\'t seem to encourage innovation does it?<br><br>And this stemcell thing in the US seems to baffle me.  The current adminstration has made it pretty clear that they do not oppose stem cell research, they just will not provide tax payer dollars to fund stem cell research from fetuses, which in itself is a highly theoritical, unproven field of research.  Wow, a government criticized for being smart with its people\'s money.  A little digging shows that 90-95% of medical research in the US (one of the KEY reasons why so much is discovered in the US, and not say, my home of Canada) is from private funding, yet people are up in arms on this issue...it is moronic.<br><br>And I am baffled by everyone who visits another country and pretends to know the intricacies of a society.  Unless you live somewhere for greater than 5 years, I really don\'t believe you have the knowledge to comment on the success or failure of a foreign society.<br><br>I subscribe to the blog to keep up to date on technology, but this blog is becoming increasingly irrelevant in that subject, and just as I wouldn\'t ask a plumber to inform me on technology, I wouldn\'t look to a tech blogger for his opinion on politics and economics.<br><br>I will check you out sometime in the future, when you have gotten off your soapbox.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711286">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711286" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711286" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711286">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711286" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711286" class="dsq-comment-message">"Oh, and Joe, I guess you can’t use Google anymore. After all Google’s CEO just endorsed Obama. So unAmerican!"<br><br>this just blows my mind. What a childish statement. I thought you\'d want to discuss this with open exchange of ideas. I guess I was wrong.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711287">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711287" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711287" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711287">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711287" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711287" class="dsq-comment-message">@court<br><br>Don\'t bother with facts, they will be ignored. Robert will argue that its religion that controls the US stem cell policy. This is his theocracy argument.  This from an atheist that converted to a state sanctioned religion to get married. Amazing. But like I said it matters not and this all just a waste of bandwidth.. sigh...</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711288">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711288" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711288" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711288">Dawn</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711288" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711288" class="dsq-comment-message">Robert, you said: I’d agree with that, but at many rallies and in many talk shows lately I’ve seen the points made that those who don’t agree are “unAmerican.”<br><br>You often claim that people who don\'t agree with you are unintelligent.  So what\'s the difference?</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711289">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711289" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711289" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711289" href="http://coolproducts.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">CoolProducts</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711289" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711289" class="dsq-comment-message">"My mom was born in Germany. We all know how much terror THEY brought on the world over the past 100 years. I’m not an American."<br><br>Oh wow.. Haha.<br><br>On a serious note: It is very sad that you feel you should have to write an article such as this.. I\'m not saying you\'re in the wrong, just that its dumbfounding that people could make such statements about a person. Someone needs to stand up and remind us all what we were taught (or at least what I was taught) as a little child in school about our country being a giant melting pot..<br><br>I don\'t like baseball. I am not an American. lol</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711290">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711290" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711290" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711290">Mike</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711290" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711290" class="dsq-comment-message">Heh.  Ah yes the wisdom of socialist democrats.  How lucky we are for you to spell it out for us evil republicans--uh scratch that, evil independents, (as I quit the Republican party when Gingrich\'s Contract with America was trashed).  You only have the current Republican leadership to thank for the new opportunity of American Socialism under Obama, which in my opinion will happen.<br><br>But lets slow down for a minute.  I understand your comments somewhat as I have lived in the south before, being from the Bay Area, and I concur that a subtle kind of darkness pervades what is visible to one who is not from there.  It pops up in strange belligerence of some the people you meet, and in their general dislike of Californians in general, paired with an odd cultural form of social segregation.<br><br>But I caution you Robert, as you are suffering from the same sense of social isolation that they are, but it is that of the San Francisco Bay Area Super Socialist Tech Culture.  Surely your comments are viewed by most Americans as whacko California ignorant clique chic.  Reminds me of the old sixties bumper sticker from the opposite world, \'America, Love it or Leave it\'.  To which I say, I do not think that forcing everyone to think as you do (as your friends at Acorn and and the socialist left would have us become) is hardly American in any way at all.  If your belief structure becomes a reality, the net result has a possibility in a collapsing economic structure to be a massive system of loss of freedom and the right to believe what you want in order to achieve your social nirvana.  And such a system would could result in a Stalin like purge at some point in the political future so that your ideals of a Brave New Green iWorld can come to pass.<br><br>Before you stupidly piss all over that which brung you, consider this:  The computers you use were designed and possibly built in Taiwan, which China looked at for forty years in jealous rage before it too adopted western capitalism, and Taiwan would today not exist had we Americans not helped them to thrive.  The same is true with South Korea.  Do you really think the South Koreans could have done as well without our political help.  I think those who lived in Seoul when the North invaded, killed anyone they found and burned the city to the ground might disagree.  Japan is the result of a constitution forged by Americans, and most of Asia today is adopting American wisdom and ideas that have proven successful.<br><br>Europe was rebuilt as a result of American help and political and financial support of the Marshall Plan so that all those socialist countries could continue to exist.  And truthfully, Europe is not so much socialist as it is a group of strongly bound social democracies with firm ties to the Capialist economic systems of the world.  Choosing higher tax rates in exchange for more government services does not necessarily make them socialist.<br><br>And certainly millions of South Americans, Indians, Armenians, Iranians, Iraqis, Germans, East Europeans, Russians, Africans, Chinese, and on and on are still trying desperately to arrive here, live here, become citizens here, especially with the literally almost nonexistent enforcement of immigration laws.  We tried to help countries like Liberia, Ethiopia, Sudan and others years ago to pattern the same economic building structure there to allow them to pull themselves out of the throes of poverty, but most of that failed for violence, revolution, murder and starvation won the day.<br><br>And as for your confusion about our participation in the middle east and Afghanistan, understand that if we were not there, the killing and murder of innocents would still be going on, and no one would be there to report it or tell us of the darkness.  The only difference is that now they have some to shoot at who shoots back and if they do succeed in ousting the Americans, then look to see every a possible world where every Israeli will be killed the moment they think they can get away with it to protect their form of intolerance toward anything not Muslim.<br><br>I would pray that your narrow minded level of intolerance for anything not liberal-democrat would be reconsidered.<br><br>I am an American.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711291">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711291" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711291" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711291" href="http://scobleizer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Robert Scoble</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711291" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711291" class="dsq-comment-message">Dawn: name one time I said that. URLs please. If do it so often you should be able to find at least three.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711292">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711292" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711292" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711292" href="http://scobleizer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Robert Scoble</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711292" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711292" class="dsq-comment-message">Jeff: &gt;&gt;This from an atheist that converted to a state sanctioned religion to get married.<br><br>I\'m not an atheist.<br><br>I have no idea whether God exists or not -- I haven\'t seen scientific proof either way. That makes me an agnostic.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711293">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711293" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711293" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711293" href="http://ericrice.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Eric Rice</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711293" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711293" class="dsq-comment-message">I\'m amused at the three things in the comments: 1. those that \'get\' the post, 2. those that totally do not \'get\' the post, and 3. the declaration of un-subscription.<br><br>For those who also live on Planet Earth, I\'d like to remind you that yes, there are in fact, -two- Americas, so please, hate only half of us.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711294">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711294" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711294" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711294" href="http://scobleizer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Robert Scoble</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711294" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711294" class="dsq-comment-message">To those who say that I only write about politics or think about politics, you are absolutely wrong.<br><br>You must read my FriendFeed comments, for instance. <a href="http://friendfeed.com/scobleizer/comments" rel="nofollow">http://friendfeed.com/scobleizer/comments</a><br><br>Or see the things I\'ve "Liked" (er, shared) with you: <a href="http://friendfeed.com/scobleizer/likes" rel="nofollow">http://friendfeed.com/scobleizer/likes</a><br><br>Or see all the things I share or blog about: <a href="http://friendfeed.com/scobleizer" rel="nofollow">http://friendfeed.com/scobleizer</a><br><br>Only a very small percentage of my work has anything to do with politics.<br><br>Which makes me very happy at the unsubscribes. I\'m hoping for a smart audience here, not one that throws insults based on bad data.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711296">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711296" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711296" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711296" href="http://www.copywriteink.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Richard Becker</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711296" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711296" class="dsq-comment-message">Robert,<br><br>I might agree with you on some issues. And, I might not on a few.<br><br>But I want to point something else out: Ignorance can be defined by not knowing when you demonstrate you are no better than. Me, I believe in tolerance because it is our ability to coexist with differences in beliefs and opinions that make us great, not our differences. No one really wins, Robert.<br><br>Best,<br>Rich</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711297">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711297" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711297" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711297" href="http://scobleizer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Robert Scoble</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711297" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711297" class="dsq-comment-message">Richard: it\'s hard to be tolerant when a Vice Presidential candidate hints that you are Un American. Which is why I wrote this post. Jon Stewart used even stronger language to respond: <a href="http://www.memeorandum.com/081020/p1#a081020p1" rel="nofollow">http://www.memeorandum.com/081020/p1#a081020p1</a></div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711298">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711298" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711298" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711298">Dinesh</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711298" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711298" class="dsq-comment-message">You\'re not an American. Guess what? You\'re not alone. Welcome to the world all you I-am-not-Americans (from a South Asian by ethnicity, born and raised Kenya, raised some more and educated in the UK, raised as a Jain, converted to an atheist, now living in Canada but at home in the World)</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711299">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711299" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711299" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711299" href="http://blog.componentoriented.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">dlambert</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711299" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711299" class="dsq-comment-message">Once again, Robert, you\'ve got a great idea in this post, but it\'s wrapped up in some pretty prickly words, and a lot of people (myself included) are having a hard time getting through those words.<br><br>I understand that you\'re trying to create a sharp contrast between your beliefs and those of people who claim to be American while doing some things that clearly set this country back many, many years.<br><br>But I am an American, and I\'m a little sensitive when it comes to messing with that pledge.<br><br>I am an American, and I believe that we can still be the greatest country on Earth.<br><br>I am an American, and I\'d much rather have a conversation about how to make things right than to bitch about those who are trying to tear us down.<br><br>I am an American, and I believe that Americans never give up, and we must never forget the principles that forged our nation.<br><br>I am an American, and I hope we can all find a way to define ourselves in terms of the things that Americans are doing right, rather than all the things that Americans are doing wrong.<br><br>I am an American, and that doesn\'t mean that I\'m one of the mindless morons you\'re trying to distance yourself from.<br><br>I am an American, and I\'m proud of it.<br><br>If you want to impress me, be a better American and help the Americans of today and the Americans of tomorrow become better citizens.  Take some ownership in the future by teaching your son that Americans aren\'t defined by the worst examples of our population, but by the best examples.<br><br>If you really believe that America can\'t be saved, then by all means, feel free to say so, because that\'s your right: bought and paid for by those that came before you.  Just be sure you understand that you\'re selling out your son\'s America, because you\'re creating the America that he\'ll live in.  I think you want a better America for him, but slinging mud back at the destructive forces in our country won\'t get us there.<br><br>Robert, I\'ve seen you ignite firestorms plenty of times in the past in order to make a point or stir up discussion, and it\'s clear that\'s what you\'ve done here, too.  Normally, I don\'t really take issue with this tactic, but this time, I think you\'ve gone too far, because I am an American, and I believe that good Americans have to take that pledge seriously.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711300">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711300" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711300" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711300">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711300" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711300" class="dsq-comment-message">"Richard: it’s hard to be tolerant when a Vice Presidential candidate hints that you are Un American. Which is why I wrote this post. Jon Stewart used even stronger language to respond: <a href="http://www.memeorandum.com/081020/p1#a081020p%22" rel="nofollow">http://www.memeorandum.com/081020/p1#a081020p"</a><br><br>This the best you can do?  Jon Stewart? c\'mon dude. Once again, think for yourself and don\'t let pop culture dictate your thought patterns.  I suppose you will point us to Howard Stern next?<br><br>"Dawn: name one time I said that. URLs please. If do it so often you should be able to find at least three."<br><br>Dawn need only point this post - aren\'t you insuating that you are smarter than Joe the Plumber and Sarah Palin? I\'d caution you here - both of them are \'doers\'.. you merely interview \'doers\'.. and isn\'t this the root of your hatred?</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711301">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711301" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711301" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711301">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711301" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711301" class="dsq-comment-message">Now to wrap this up.. why are you so insulted? According to everything I see on tv, the majority position in this country is the same as yours.  The country is overwhelming liberal correct? So why should some crazy remarks of some soon-to-be footnote in presidential politics bother you?</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711302">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711302" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711302" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711302">Court</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711302" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711302" class="dsq-comment-message">Robert, in response your comment to Dawn that you never say people who disagree with you are unintelligent.<br><br>"Which makes me very happy at the unsubscribes. I’m hoping for a smart audience here, not one that throws insults based on bad data."<br><br>That is your comment subsequent to the comment in question.  Does this not infer that people who disagree with you are not smart, that people who unsubscribe are not smart?  What constitutes bad data...data that goes against your opinions?  What about all the people who are unsubscribing cause they find your blogs on technology insightful but your political and economical rants tiring, are they not smart?  As someone who deals in Finance for a living, it is stunning to see you criticize the knowledge of the common voter and then argue points so fundamentally flawed they make me wonder if you have ever taken a course in finance, economics or accounting in your life.<br><br>"The best argument against democracy is a 5 minute conversation with the average voter"  Winston Churchill</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711303">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711303" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711303" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711303" href="http://scobleizer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Robert Scoble</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711303" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711303" class="dsq-comment-message">Court: no it means that people who try to abuse other people for their opinions are not smart. There\'s a HUGE difference. I don\'t care if you disagree. Say so in a smart way and you might even change my opinion.<br><br>By the way I have a minor in economics.<br><br>Bad data is data that\'s bad. :-)</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711304">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711304" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711304" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711304">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711304" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711304" class="dsq-comment-message">@Court<br><br>Isn\'t funny how he says bad data.. then points to Jon Stewart as a credible reference? Look at the comment he gave me - he converted to Islam yet he\'s agnostic, so it was a sham and his credibility is plummeting by the second. The really bad part is that he doesn\'t realize he is being used for his audience.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711305">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711305" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711305" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711305" href="http://scobleizer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Robert Scoble</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711305" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711305" class="dsq-comment-message">&gt;As someone who deals in Finance for a living, it is stunning to see you criticize the knowledge of the common voter and then argue points so fundamentally flawed<br><br>I think you missed the whole point of yesterday\'s post. It was criticizing Sarah Palin for calling wide swaths of Americans "UnAmerican."<br><br>But now you have me interested. What points are fundamentally flawed?</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711306">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711306" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711306" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711306" href="http://scobleizer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Robert Scoble</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711306" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711306" class="dsq-comment-message">Jeff: I used to be an evangelical Christian too.<br><br>So you can\'t convert from religion to religion so that we can do a stupid ceremony to make wife\'s family happy? Got it.<br><br>Me? I love it when religious people get mad with me over this stuff. In the meantime we COULD be arguing about the economy, or how we\'ll solve the energy problems or global warming or any of that. Yet you care about my religious weirdnesses. Sigh.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711307">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711307" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711307" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711307" href="http://scobleizer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Robert Scoble</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711307" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711307" class="dsq-comment-message">Oh, and I never said Jon Stewart is a credible reference. Where do you get this stuff in your mind? We\'re talking about Sarah Palin\'s "Un American" comments. Just in case I wasn\'t clear enough.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711308">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711308" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711308" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711308">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711308" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711308" class="dsq-comment-message">Do u feel I am abusing you Robert? I just want to know how strong you believe these things and how far you are willing to go.  Where do you see religion winning out over science and technology? Where do you see stem cell research creating more value then a person that installs plumbing in a home? If you really feel that your money is better spent some other way, cut a check for at least half your net worth and give it away.. but you have to give to someone who will give it away in some way you don\'t support - perhaps a stem cell research protest or maybe it goes to an anti abortion group.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711309">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711309" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711309" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711309">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711309" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711309" class="dsq-comment-message">You were clear. I still don\'t see why I should give any credence to what he says.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711310">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711310" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711310" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711310">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711310" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711310" class="dsq-comment-message">Why haven\'t you criticised Obama\'s clinging to guns and religion remark? Isn\'t that insulting wide swaths of Americans?</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711311">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711311" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711311" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711311">benb</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711311" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711311" class="dsq-comment-message">Robert,<br><br>Curious - how can you have been an evangelical christian and now Muslim but claim to not believe that God exists - i.e. you stated you are not sure thus you are not sure either way. Fair enough - but how can you claim to belong or have belonged to religions for which such a belief is a requirement?</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711312">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711312" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711312" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711312">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711312" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711312" class="dsq-comment-message">Isn\'t because its you agree with that comment?</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711313">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711313" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711313" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711313">benb</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711313" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711313" class="dsq-comment-message">I also might add that while your point might be take, to somehow judge the worth of a "Joe the Plumber" as compared to the multiple references comes across as not only elitist but really quite an insult to many people who have such jobs. How about you take out all of your plumbing - i.e. running water, indoor toilets and then claim there is no value. R&amp;D is excellent - it is what I do - but you need the "Joes" to implement the research. Those statements among others are ignorant. Everything has been R&amp;D  at one point or another, for which you then insult the people who carry out the R&amp;D endpoints that you cite as being the important part about R&amp;D. Completely defective and twisted logic.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711314">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711314" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711314" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711314" href="http://scobleizer.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Robert Scoble</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711314" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711314" class="dsq-comment-message">benb: it might be elitist, but here\'s the deal. An R&amp;D worker can come up with something totally new that creates thousands of jobs.<br><br>THAT is why America needs to save its R&amp;D jobs and worry a little less about plumbers in its public discourse.<br><br>Jeff: I used to believe in God then a variety of things happened to change my belief. I could go into that if you want, but I have to go do some interviews today so will have to take that up some other time.<br><br>&gt;Where do you see religion winning out over science and technology?<br><br>Easy, Congressmen say that the Bush administration has blocked policy after policy on religious grounds. Plus they\'ve fired scientists, and more. But I don\'t have time right now to pull up all the URLs and get into a whole dissertation, gotta go do some real work and make sure an entrepreneur can get his/her company in front of you to have a chance to make it. I think that\'s a little more important than arguing this stuff, at least right now.<br><br>Gotta run.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711315">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711315" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711315" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711315">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711315" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711315" class="dsq-comment-message">@benb<br><br>Succinctly and intelligently put. Here\'s the problem. The Winer talking points have no answer to logic. What Robert will say is he wasn\'t insulting Joe the Plumber (clearly he was... much the same the lipstick on a pig remark was).</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711316">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711316" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711316" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711316">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711316" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711316" class="dsq-comment-message">"Easy, Congressmen say that the Bush administration has blocked policy after policy on religious grounds. Plus they’ve fired scientists, and more. But I don’t have time right now to pull up all the URLs and get into a whole dissertation, gotta go do some real work and make sure an entrepreneur can get his/her company in front of you to have a chance to make it. I think that’s a little more important than arguing this stuff, at least right now."<br><br><br><br>Nice change of direction. I\'ll never defend GWB, but please don\'t give me partisan politics. Give me a record of where a politician blocked/votes something down due to religous beliefs.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711317">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711317" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711317" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711317" href="http://deadnode.org/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">James</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711317" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711317" class="dsq-comment-message">@Christianity: The five year wait for a CT scan was only part of the problem (obviously, in reality I simply paid to receive the procedure promptly) - if you live long enough to reach the treatment stage, you can be denied treatment on cost grounds, with the added threat that they will withdraw ALL treatment if you choose to pay for the aspects they exclude. Yes, it\'s "free" - if you live long enough - but only if the treatment is cheap enough to be approved. A lot of recent cancer treatments are deemed too expensive, for example, and denied to those relying on this "universal" care.<br><br>You may have a point that it\'s better than nothing - but when it only provides a subset of care to a lucky subset of people, is it really any more "universal" than Medicaid and similar programs? Ultimately, you\'re still at the mercy of how generous the government is feeling at the time, and can still end up broke or dead because you can\'t get the treatment you need without paying a fortune for it.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711318">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711318" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711318" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711318">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711318" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711318" class="dsq-comment-message">"benb: it might be elitist, but here’s the deal. An R&amp;D worker can come up with something totally new that creates thousands of jobs. "<br><br>Wow now there is turn of events... Let me see the Democrat party likes to use the line that they are for the working/middle class... then he dismisses a Joe but supports R&amp;D... and who is R&amp;D funded by? Major corporations. he his thumbing his nose at the value created by Joe (working class) and saying that an R&amp;D worker is a better (highly educated, most likely pulling down six figures and working for or being funded by large corporations). And in the same breath they will rip the republican party.  What a trip.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711319">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711319" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711319" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711319" href="http://chroniqueba.blog.lemonde.fr/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Dul</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711319" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711319" class="dsq-comment-message">What is an american?<br><br>Chavez in an American<br>Lula is an American<br>Kirchner is an American etc...<br><br>The majority of the Americans don\'t speak English but Spanish.<br>May be we are not speaking about the same thing.<br><br>nice post any way.<br><br>I\'m european living in America (Argentina exactly)</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711320">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711320" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711320" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711320">benb</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711320" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711320" class="dsq-comment-message">@Jeff<br><br>Exactly. There are so many levels of absurdity.<br><br>For example, the R&amp;D that he says creates thousands of jobs are the jobs that the "Joes" end up doing. So if the Joes/ working middle class jobs are worthless, what does that say about the high and mighty R&amp;D?</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711321">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711321" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711321" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711321">benb</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711321" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711321" class="dsq-comment-message">Robert, I had a thought about your comment regarding worrying less about the Joe the plumbers. Among other things, indeed, lets worry less about the working class. Lets worry less about construction workers as well and whether or not they have or get paid well for jobs. We do not need working plumbing, working roads etc. Who cares if their family is able to get by and whether their kids can go to school and perhaps reach the highest level of R&amp;D. Certainly forget the arts and people who do things in that realm, after all what do they really provide? Certainly not thousands of jobs.<br><br>Do you not see that it is all an ecosystem, one begets another. R&amp;D begets the Joes, which begets families and kids to be educated and so on. A hard working person not inventing, but creating via the inventions of others, without them there is no value in the R&amp;D. If there is no value in R&amp;D, there is no incentive to R&amp;D and so on.<br><br>For someone that has called on "fellow democrats" your comments are so far out of whack as to make no sense. Perhaps it should have been aimed towards "fellow elitist democrats". The group of elitists can all get together and decide how we should all live, how the money should be split up and it all becomes a moot point. I work as an R&amp;D person and find your whole stance on the subject to be troubling, but really more of an indictment about you and how you value people. I wonder how you view yourself in the equation of value in the world?</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711322">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711322" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711322" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711322">Raul Orviedo</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711322" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711322" class="dsq-comment-message">Your best blog item to this date.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711323">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711323" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711323" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711323">david</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711323" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711323" class="dsq-comment-message">I guess I\'m not an American either, eh?</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711324">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711324" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711324" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711324">Gene</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711324" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711324" class="dsq-comment-message">Right on! I\'m also tired of being considered un-American because I believe in many of the things you do. And, as a Catholic, I\'m tired of having my morality questioned.<br><br>And look at the vitriol of so many commenters here, proving exactly the point you make by facetiously stating that you are not an American.<br><br>I think I\'ll subscribe to your blog, because I like my technology with a dose of humanity.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711325">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711325" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711325" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711325">matthew</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711325" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711325" class="dsq-comment-message">You are right on point Robert.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711326">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711326" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711326" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711326" href="http://chaze77.wordpress.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">chaze77</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711326" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711326" class="dsq-comment-message">I am not an American either, apparently.<br><br>Great post.<br><br>Thanks for havin\' the guts to say it.<br><br>Obama/Biden \'08</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711327">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711327" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711327" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711327">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711327" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711327" class="dsq-comment-message">@benb<br><br>I have learned that trying to draw Robert and Dave Winer into dialog never results in anything positive. They will eventually call you names, leave nasty little one liners that they think are witty and abandon the comments altogether while never providing one thoughtful response to questions such as yours. Why I am still commenting.. .cause I am an ass I guess. But Scoble and  his ilk facinate me. Their minds have been so polluted by an idealogy that they themselves have not thought up, that they can\'t see the end game is their own destruction.  Ten years from now when the fairness doctrine is instituted they will find themselves victims of their own nearsightedness. And the planters of the seeds will reap what they have sown with these \'sims\'. And Scoble and his ilk will be standing there like richard gere at the end of Primal Fear finally realizing they\'ve been had.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711328">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711328" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711328" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711328" href="http://imajin.wordpress.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Yorkali</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711328" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711328" class="dsq-comment-message">!!!EXCELLENT . EXCELLENT POST!!!!</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711329">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711329" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711329" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711329">Bob</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711329" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711329" class="dsq-comment-message">Great! I\'ll help you pack Robert - we don\'t need you!</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711330">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711330" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711330" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711330">Christopher</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711330" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711330" class="dsq-comment-message">I am tired of a "Tech" writer who rants about liberal politics. What ever credibility he did have is completely lost.<br><br>Signed,<br>An American.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711331">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711331" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711331" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711331">Bob Evan&#39;s Sausage</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711331" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711331" class="dsq-comment-message">I AM NOT A SUBSCRIBER!  I removed myself just after reading Scommie\'s anti-American rant.<br><br>I say go ahead move to Australia, maybe they have and open borders policy, like you wish that American had, and you can get it right away.  Keep in mind that when you get there, even though you aren\'t yet a citizen, you should immediately start demanding health care coverage, voting rights, and demand that they publish everything in American English (some of those Aussie terms can get confusing).<br><br>I had no idea you were such a snobbish, Liberal, elitist.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711332">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711332" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711332" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711332" href="http://ladow.net/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Bob</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711332" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711332" class="dsq-comment-message">Vice presidential candidate Joe Biden told large swaths of Americans they are unpatriotic because they aren\'t willing to pay more taxes.  Robert, I do not recall you making a post like this about that.<br><br>Because you are an American, you can post about whatever you feel like.<br><br>I come here for technology information.  I love politics, but I have different venues for them.  I\'ll be looking at different venues for technology news too.<br><br>No name-calling here.  I am not even a Republican.  I am just extremely disappointed in what you posted.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711333">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711333" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711333" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711333">Alz</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711333" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711333" class="dsq-comment-message">Some of you will appreciate the talk called "HOW MODERN LIBERALS THINK" by a guy named Evan Sayet.  It\'s a work of genius.  You\'ll need some quiet time, but it is very good.<br><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eaE98w1KZ-c" rel="nofollow">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eaE98w1KZ-c</a></div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711258">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711258" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711258" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711258" href="http://www.douglaskarr.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Douglas Karr</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711258" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711258" class="dsq-comment-message">Wow, Robert.  You sure know how to start a conversation!  :)</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711104">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711104" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711104" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711104">Christopher Coulter</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711104" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711104" class="dsq-comment-message">Blah, you can\'t ever even believe any Scoble post, it\'s all controversy for controversy sake, no such thing as negative press, when no ones talking about you, kick up some outlandish blog fit, which will result in a 360 backtrack if the heat gets too hot, but traffic for the craziness and traffic for the apology...blah blah blah.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711105">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711105" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711105" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711105">JB</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711105" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711105" class="dsq-comment-message">So why do you want to make the US more like France or Canada?  If you want a socialist paradise, you can move to one of those places.<br><br>Do you have any concept that there are people who live in the US because they like the freedoms found here (economic and otherwise)?<br><br>No offense, but you can move to your socialist haven of choice.  Liberty-loving people don\'t have that option.  Do you really want to put our backs against the wall and shove your socialism down our throats?  Do you think we will stand for it?<br><br>I encourage you and your ilk to keep pushing and see what happens.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711118">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711118" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711118" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711118" href="http://itsthe21stcenturystupid.wordpress.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Jim Satterfield</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711118" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711118" class="dsq-comment-message">What an amazing ongoing display of ignorance by so many people.<br><br><blockquote><br>Palin also made a point of mentioning that she loved to visit the "pro-America" areas of the country, of which North Carolina is one. No word on which states she views as unpatriotic.<br></blockquote><br><br>From the <a href="http://voices.washingtonpost.com/the-trail/2008/10/17/to_avoid_being_depressed_palin.html?hpid=topnews" rel="nofollow">Washington Post</a>, not Jon Stewart. Or here it is from the <a rel="nofollow">Huffington Post</a>.<br><br>Extremists of any kind suffer from what I think of as an ideological lobotomy. But I decided long ago that the Republican Party had drifted too far to the right for me to be able to vote for them in good conscience. My suspicions began when Reagan promised us that we could jack up defense spending, cut taxes and still balance the budget. And then there were these Southern conservative extremist ministers he was kissing up to. It just went downhill from there, IMO.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711117">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711117" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711117" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711117" href="http://roadsofstone.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Roads</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711117" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711117" class="dsq-comment-message">Well stated, Robert. Wasn\'t America supposed to be \'The Land of the Free\' and the guardian of liberty?<br><br>And then somehow it ended up torturing Iraqis in their own jail, and holding people in Cuba illegally for seven years without trial.<br><br>America set out to be the voice of progress, but something serious went wrong along the way. Who would have thought that a nation comprised of immigrants and refugees from all nations would one day become so xenophobic and narrow-minded?<br><br>Or that a neo-Conservative \'religious\' right wing would one day condemn science whilst tolerating starvation across half of the planet? Who would have thought that America would become isolationist enough in its outlook to alienate even its closest allies in Europe?<br><br>Something\'s gotta change. And I\'m optimistic that it will. Keep up the good work.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711206">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711206" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711206" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711206" href="http://hackmybrain.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Francis Ocoma</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711206" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711206" class="dsq-comment-message">"I believe that informed citizens should vote for candidates not whether they are pro or anti-Abortion, but whether they actually are smart and whether they have enough life experiences to do the job well. I’m not an American."<br><br>Oh, you\'re quite American, all right. That has nothing to do with the fact that you support the murder of human beings...oops, I mean, the discarding of insignificant, inconvenient, unwanted tissue, which just so happens to have its own DNA separate from its mother. But if all you want is for people to acknowledge that you\'re American, then worry no more. YOU\'RE AMERICAN, SCOBLEIZER!<br><br>See, I like making people happy.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711334">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711334" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711334" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711334" href="http://www.icsmultimedia.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Ian McDonald</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711334" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711334" class="dsq-comment-message">Come to Australia !<br><br>We love Americans who understand what being American is<br><br>Some things we admire, some we cannot understand<br><br>I AM NOT AMERICAN!</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711335">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711335" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711335" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711335">Bob</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711335" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711335" class="dsq-comment-message">I will defend GWB!! He has defended us!   We were attached on 9/11/2001.   Can anyone tell me when we have been attacked again on our own soil?!  When innocent Americans have been killed by terrorists in our own cities?<br><br>You may put him down for the economy, but when it came to his first and highest<br>priority,  he has performed with excellence!!  I only hope that our next president realizes that our safety takes priority.  A strong economy is worthless if we are not safe!!</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711336">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711336" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711336" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711336" href="http://nsavides.wordpress.co/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Nick Savides</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711336" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711336" class="dsq-comment-message">I can understand your frustration at the state of politics today, but your post  shows a complete disrespect for anyone who disagrees with you, which is just as arrogant as the people you\'re protesting in your post.  I don\'t mind hearing different positions than mine, but I don\'t have time for people who assume anyone who disagrees with them is an idiot.<br><br>I just deleted my link to your site, and I won\'t be getting tech updates from you any more.  TechCrunch is just as informative, and I don\'t get condescending commentary over there.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711337">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711337" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711337" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711337">Max</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711337" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711337" class="dsq-comment-message">I\'m outta here (i.e. your site) too.  I like technology, hate politics, and all your post said was that you are nothing but a loser.  Seriously.  PLEASE move somewhere else far away, not because you don\'t have a right to be here, but because, well, this country needs less losers.  Oh, and try not to move to Australia, it\'s just make the country less cool.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711338">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711338" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711338" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711338" href="http://www.timothypost.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Timothy Post</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711338" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711338" class="dsq-comment-message">That\'s why I moved to Krasnodar, Russia. Russia is now the land of opportunity.<br><br>Will the "real" America please stand-up on November 4th and be heard?</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711339">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711339" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711339" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711339">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711339" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711339" class="dsq-comment-message">"Mark my words," Biden told donors at a Seattle fund-raiser Sunday night.<br><br>"It will not be six months before the world tests Barack Obama like they did John Kennedy. The world is looking. We\'re about to elect a brilliant 47-year-old senator president of the United States of America.<br><br>"Watch. We\'re going to have an international crisis, a generated crisis, to test the mettle of this guy.<br><br>"And he\'s going to need help . . . to stand with him. Because it\'s not going to be apparent initially; it\'s not going to be apparent that we\'re right."<br><br><br>He\'s going to need help? I thought worlds hopes hinge on him being elected? Won\'t long time enemies embrace and put the past behind them? Won\'t crime, disease, misfortune and injustice cease to exist once he takes the oath? Isn\'t he the person we need? Didn\'t he pick this time in history to run?<br><br>HA!</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711340">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711340" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711340" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711340">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711340" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711340" class="dsq-comment-message">Got Hope?<br><br>The VP Candidate destroys his own campaigns propaganda! And Palins the idiot... MMMWHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711341">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711341" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711341" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711341">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711341" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711341" class="dsq-comment-message">One more thing<br><br>Just saw Mr. Obama on a podium that says \'Growing American Jobs\'... lets see in his commercials he says he\'s not interested in CEO\'s (those people that found companies and provide jobs), he is going to force healthcare on those companies \'that can afford it\', and raises taxes on capital gains for those that invest in companies so they can grow and provide new jobs. But he is going to provide a tax cut for companies for every new job that you hire an American for. My dear senator there is not a tax break in the world that can offset the salary differential between onshore and offshore. Like he doesn\'t know it. More empty bumper sticker policy.<br><br>Nothing tops Joe Biden making the case for McCain though...</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711342">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711342" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711342" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711342" href="http://www.dealarchitect.typepad.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">vinnie mirchandani</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711342" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711342" class="dsq-comment-message">I was on a plane with this passenger who was reading "The Post-American World" and he told me a total stranger had walked up to him and said it was unpatriotic to read that book...</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711343">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711343" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711343" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711343" href="http://www.new.facebook.com/profile.php?id=27210707" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Jesse Waite</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711343" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711343" class="dsq-comment-message">Because of the title, or because it was a book?</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711344">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711344" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711344" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711344">Matt</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711344" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711344" class="dsq-comment-message">I\'m a wee late to the game here but this was such a good post (and set of comments) I thought I would add the following...<br><br>Robert - there\'s an old adage in the journalism business that says if you don\'t challenge 50% of your audience w/an op ed piece, then you wrote a crappy piece.<br><br>3 other points:<br>- Since when were we taught (in America) that socialist doctrine for medicine, infrastructure, education (and other essential needs) were bad things? Our founding fathers debated this at length and there are several historic documents that talk to their agreement than much of this was to be needed to have a gov\'t "by the people, and for the people." Go read what Monroe or Adams wrote about this (or even Jefferson). Either people have forgotten what they were taught in middle school or they\'re confusing what they may have learned about the 20th century and the grand ideological experiments run around the world (or they were asleep in school and never really learned about this stuff at all).<br><br>- We do not live in a democracy, we live in a Republic. The reason that our founding fathers chose a republic as the form of gov\'t for our country was because they agreed (after much debate) that many of the would-be citizens of this young country would not be smart enough to rule themselves in a more democratic system.<br><br>After reading many of the comments to your original post it should be obvious to all why our founding fathers were correct in this key assumption. The unwillingness to participate in open dialogue by some of your readers is disappointing, yet speaks exactly to this point.<br><br>- The commentary (by some of your readers) on "security" is woefully misguided. If we had done more to balance our energy needs a decade ago (through developing alternatives to oil) we would have been in a much different position re: the tensions in the Middle East, and the events that led up to 9/11. Over the last 8 years we have not made the US more "secure" - we have actually made it more vulnerable socially, politically, and economically (this is easily measured in the number of true allies we have, our trading partners (the largest being China), and dropping value of the dollar worldwide.<br><br>Robert - your post was a good one - it caused thought and discourse. This country needs more discourse...(not rants...)<br><br>And as for those that won\'t follow your blog anymore - get a life - this is exactly how society used to discuss these types of nationally important topics (but these folks were also probably the ones that thought "Gulliver\'s Travels" was just a good story if/when they read it in HS)</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711345">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711345" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711345" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711345" href="http://www.dealarchitect.typepad.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">vinnie mirchandani</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711345" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711345" class="dsq-comment-message">Jesse, he did not elaborate but to Robert\'s theme, we are reading in to a whole bunch of little things and jumping to emotional conclusions.<br><br>It would have been so much better if the comment had been on the lines of "Did you know the author is also a Newsweek editor, and Newsweek tends to be a liberal publication?" and not pushing the patriotic button...</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711346">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711346" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711346" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711346">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711346" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711346" class="dsq-comment-message">\'Unpatriotic\'.. \'Unamerican\'.. \'I believe\'... you guys are fighting over things out of your control.. you really think you have a choice in this election? In the last 2 elections? Don\'t you get it? The puppets you see on TV for both parties are fueled by the same money machine, beholden to the same interests. We are idiots in the first degree, don\'t you get it? Palin? Biden? Obama? McCain? Are you kidding me? People think for yourselves and not fall into the \'I Believe\' diatribes the money machine has designed for you.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711347">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711347" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711347" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711347">Anon</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711347" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711347" class="dsq-comment-message">We are human beings first. Whatever else we identify with afterwards is an abstraction from that whole by the mind. Labels based on associations formed from opinions separate us from our true identity.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711348">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711348" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711348" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711348">Richard</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711348" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711348" class="dsq-comment-message">My wife always says, "I\'m not Dutch, I\'m not Peruvian, I\'m just a citizen of this world"....</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711351">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711351" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711351" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711351">theoatwa</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711351" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711351" class="dsq-comment-message">republicans have been in control of congress for the last 12 of 14 years.<br><br>enough blaming everything on 2 years of dems bare majority in congress. 1 vote advantage in senate does not spell in power, nor excuse for a pathetic, know-nothing, no-result 8 years.<br><br>btw, republicans haven’t balanced anything including the budget ever. scared of the left ruining the country? gimme’ a break.<br><br>first see figure 3 @ <a href="http://www.cedarcomm.com/%7Estevelm1/usdebt.htm" rel="nofollow">http://www.cedarcomm.com/~stevelm1/usdebt.htm</a><br><br>there you find a graph that illustrates the myth that you can cut taxes and increase spending and expect to get increased government revenue. Since Johnson, every Democrat has increased revenue more than spending. However the opposite’s true under all five Republican Presidents since Nixon, government revenue has decreased and spending has increased. This is unambiguous proof that cutting taxes does not increase revenue. Yet John McCain is still trying to sell that old canard.<br><br>The contrast between Clinton’s tax policies and W’s are dramatically evident from this data. By setting up taxes to help the middle class and small business Clinton stimulated the economy so much that we saw the largest increase in government revenue in history. Neocon’s “trickle down” dogma clearly does not work. You cut taxes and you reduce government revenue. Duh. That is the evidence, no matter how many times we are told you must make the wealthy just a little richer to improve the economy. Numbers show it does not work…</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711352">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711352" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711352" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711352">bb</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711352" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711352" class="dsq-comment-message">Robert, you are right.  You are not an "American", at least by historical standards.  However, you appear to either naive or mentally challenged.<br><br>You are human - how quaint.  I wonder if you would be so glib if you were a Christian in Afghanistan.  A Hindu in western Kashmir.  A Muslim in Xinjiang.<br><br>FYI, I am neither Republican or Democrat. I vote the person.  I vote the issue.<br><br><br>Stem cell research - in favor of it.  As much of it as PRIVATE ENTERPRISE wants to buy.  I do not think government should be in the business of taking tax dollars from families trying to pay for a house and childrens\' education and spending in on stem cell research.<br><br>Same sex marriage - against it personally BUT should be up to each state legislature and electorate to decide.  NOT the judiciary.<br><br>Public transportation - very much in favor of it but smart enough to recognize that it works best in high population density areas, ie large cities, small countries, etc.<br><br>Nuclear power - in favor it.  If only there were not so many lawsuits filed against every application . . . .<br><br>Development of our own energy resources - in favor of it.  Too bad (anti-American imo) that government owns so much of the land that contains the energy resources<br><br>Immigration - very much in favor of it.  But there are practical limits.  If I have a swimming pool, I should have the right to limit my neighbors\' use of that pool.  Fences are part of that the process whereby use is controlled.<br><br>Countries without borders trend toward anarchy.  Countries without immigration trend toward xenophobia.  History teaches that any group of people can only integrate so many newcomers at any one time.<br><br>FYI, I have my doctorate from an American university but have lived and worked overseas (3 different countries) for 16 years.  I speak 3 languages.<br><br>And I am proud to be an American because of the freedom that is so prevalent in the US and because of all that Americans have accomplished in the world for the last 200+ years.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711353">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711353" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711353" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711353" href="http://martin-english.com/whatsup" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">martin english</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711353" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711353" class="dsq-comment-message">Lots of discussion, some usefull, some ... well.<br><br>I\'m always amused by the "if you dont like it, leave it" argument.  My first retort is "If you dont want this to be the best country it can be, then YOU leave, because YOU dont love it enough"".  Unfortunately, its a bit long for a bumper sticker.<br><br>One issues I (as a non american) is the tenor of many americans (most recently, the right-wing and their supporters) who lecture the rest of us on how important and special the freedom that Americans fought and ided for are.  These are the same americans who support supression of freedom at home (TSA, etc) and abroad (extraordinary renditions, torture &amp;tc).<br><br>The WHOLE WORLD (including Americans) support the ideals of the US Constitution, and the "American Dream".  A lot of us (including Americans) are perceptive enough to see when these ideals are not being met.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711354">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711354" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711354" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711354">Mark</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711354" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711354" class="dsq-comment-message">The most obvious quotes was Johnson\'s "Patriotism is the last refuge of a scoundrel.", but I thought this apropos<br>"It is unpleasing to represent our affairs to our own disadvantage; yet it is necessary to shew the evils which we desire to be removed."<br>Johnson: Introduction to the Political State of Great Britain<br><a href="http://www.samueljohnson.com/introgb.html" rel="nofollow">http://www.samueljohnson.com/introgb.html</a><br><br>That Robert is attacked for the view that so much of the political debate trades on the view that to oppose an idea or belief is to be Un American shows that debate hasn\'t moved on since 1756.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711349">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711349" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711349" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711349" href="http://startupmeme.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Sardar Mohkim Khan</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711349" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711349" class="dsq-comment-message">Put aside all tech stuff and let\'s just read that once again. Very natural, very human, very true. The point is to keep our own believes with ourselves and think on a very wider level, that of being Humans. The actions should be based on \'intelligence\' and not arrogance or proud of being powerful in one way or the other.<br>The point here is not hammering the \'I am not this or that\' it\'s more about being a part of the greater boundaries this World is limited to.<br><br>Appreciate your thoughts and words, well put.<br><br>Regards,</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711350">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711350" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711350" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711350">smohkim</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711350" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711350" class="dsq-comment-message">I am quite surprised as to why my comment was delete :s</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711355">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711355" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711355" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711355">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711355" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711355" class="dsq-comment-message">Once again repeat after me...Politicians don\'t give a DAMN about you. They don\'t give a DAMN about balanced budgets or any other issue. They only have beliefs that will get them elected. Stop being fools. Republican.. Democrat...<br>You think Obama gives a DAMN about you? You think he is going to spend every minute of being in the white house thinking about the \'middle class\' (what is the middle class by the way.. that\'s right.. a straw man...) Or do think Obama will be commiserating with George Clooney and Oprah? Same goes for McCain. Its over. The republic is dead.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711356">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711356" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711356" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711356">mike</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711356" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711356" class="dsq-comment-message">the average tax rate in Europe for a single person is 42%; the average tax rate for a married, double income family with two children in Europe is 36.1%<br><br>socialism is you giving up your rights to do things you want to do; socialism is the non-atheist form of communism<br><br>the objective is to keep illegal immigrants out, and send them back; we allow legal immigrants in; we\'re paying for the illegal immigrants; the legal immigrants are supporting themselves<br><br>the constitution does not give the children of illegal immigrants the right to citizenship; it only provides citizenship to those people who agree and choose to live under the jurisdiction of our government and abide by our laws</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711357">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711357" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711357" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711357" href="http://www.techtoolblog.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Tim</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711357" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711357" class="dsq-comment-message">Ah, you might be an American, but you are for sure an idiot</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711358">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711358" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711358" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711358">Bruno M.</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711358" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711358" class="dsq-comment-message">In response to your last statement ...<br><br>Just my thoughts after hanging out with lots of non-Americans this past week in Greensboro, North Carolina. You can tell them, can’t you? They wear Obama buttons and have Obama stickers on their cars.<br><br>You\'re clearly implying that anyone support McCain is un-American.  This is the kind of claims that Obama supporters whine is spewed against them by the right.  More hypocritical bullshit which is not that much different from all the race-baiting by the Obama campaign - when they\'re the only ones bringing up race!</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711359">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711359" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711359" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711359" href="http://www.womensdeals.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Boone Gal</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711359" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711359" class="dsq-comment-message">Bruno, you are mixed up!  Besides Scoby\'s tongue in cheek monologue, the ONLY folks spewing the words: anti-American, unAmerican or even Pro-American are Republicans AND McCain supporters.<br>I suppose the diversity of the Democratic party gives us the understanding that people don\'t have to look alike, smell alike, think alike or worship alike in order to be Americans.  True Americans believe in each other!</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711264">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711264" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711264" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711264">Dave</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711264" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711264" class="dsq-comment-message">If this post reflects the thinking of every liberal then I fear for the future of our country.  The libs spend more time lynching Joe the Plumber than they ever did vetting Barry. It\'s very simple.  This issue is not Joe\'s background.The issue is that Barry showed his true colors as a Marxist with his response. But, yes, pay no  attention behind that curtain.<br><br>I have a challenge for you, Scoble. But I doubt will agree to it, or could pull it off if you tried. I don\'t think any lib could.  But, here goes:<br><br>Please take every promise and/or proposal that Barry and McCain have made during this campaign and match it with an Article or Amendment in the Constitution that gives them, or Congress the power to implement it.  NO WHERE in the Constitution does it grant the power to Congress to rob from the rich and give to the poor.   Now, lest  you go down some rathole you will be unable to climb out of, the General Welfare does not cover any of the proposals Barry has made. So, don\'t bother.  Ready?  GO!!!<br><br>Yea, I didn\'t think you could. Frustrating document that Constitution, huh?  The Founding Fathers knew that left unchecked, the Federal Govt. would gravitate to Socialism.  Thank God for their foresight and thus ensuring a Limited Government.  (I do hope that is not an unknown concept to you)<br><br>Barry would do well to study the words of Churchill<br><br>"Socialism is a philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy, its inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery. ~ Winston Churchill</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711265">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711265" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711265" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711265">German Girl</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711265" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711265" class="dsq-comment-message">Why is the sentence about Germany in the post?</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711263">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711263" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711263" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711263" href="http://lovelove.typepad.com/weblog/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Josh Smith</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711263" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711263" class="dsq-comment-message">Right on. Good post. Great discussion. What would we do without the internets.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711262">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711262" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711262" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711262">Jeff Berlin</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711262" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711262" class="dsq-comment-message">I am like voting for Obama because he\'s like nice and he\'s like giving hope to the world and I like like that.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711259">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711259" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711259" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711259">motley416</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711259" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711259" class="dsq-comment-message">Good grief... I mean I live in a nation of dumbed down zombies... the things that we need to do are laid out clearly before us. So you think Obama is the solution to our problems eh? Or maybe you think McCain is. I can\'t find anyone who has done a measly week\'s worth of of studying either man\'s background. No one knows crap about history. Allow me to take you back. Woodrow Wilson said on his departing address, that this country had, through him, become controlled by a banking elite. Eisenhower warned of the of the military industrial complex... you know, the guys who keep pushing us into wars so they can sell weapons systems.  People have been at their stupidest when it comes to John Kennedy. Here\'s a guy who vowed to do away with the CIA... Remember the CIA? The people who control 95% of worldwide drug trafficking? He also wanted to abolish the Federal Reserve. He also was opposed to becoming involved in Vietnam.. hint hint... military-industrial complex ring a bell here??? I\'m sorry but all I\'ve done is casual research and I know about these things. This is nothing brilliant, nothing profound here... just basic research. My verdict is that Americans are too stupid to live in a free society and now that it\'s being taken away from them they\'re too dumb to realize what they\'re losing. Sco\' , all you do is address the superficial... blah blah blah blah blah... glad you\'re so impressed with yourself... I\'m not.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711360">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711360" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711360" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711360">Terry</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711360" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711360" class="dsq-comment-message">Ah.......... Nationalism<br>The last refuge of the scoundrel!!<br>This is an interesting post but no one is giving any answers to the problems of the bit of dirt you lot live on.<br>You have an unfair voting system. Your government is hand in glove with the oil companies and china to prevent europe acting on climate change to the detriment of all of us on the planet.(including the bit you live on)<br>Your politicians spend all their time prostituting themselves raising money from business to get themselves re-elected. Your presidential nominees are bookends of the same political party. The millions raised to get elected could be spent on solar power owned by the taxpayer for the benefit of all. That\'s socialism. Everybody has a gun I suppose this makes you all feel like one tough cowboy. GET A LIFE!!<br>What America needs is a second political party preferably to the left or are you all scared?<br>I know! come and live in Australia and have fun!</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711361">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711361" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711361" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711361">Terry</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711361" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711361" class="dsq-comment-message">Ah.......... Nationalism<br>The last refuge of the scoundrel!!<br>This is an interesting post but no one is giving any answers to the problems of the bit of dirt you lot live on.<br>You have an unfair voting system. Your government is hand in glove with the oil companies and china to prevent europe acting on climate change to the detriment of all of us on the planet.(including the bit you live on)<br>Your politicians spend all their time prostituting themselves raising money from business to get themselves re-elected. Your presidential nominees are bookends of the same political party. The millions raised to get elected could be spent on solar power owned by the taxpayer for the benefit of all. That\'s socialism. Everybody has a gun I suppose this makes you all feel like one tough cowboy. GET A LIFE!!<br>What America needs is a second political party preferably to the left or are you all scared?<br>I know! come and live in Australia and have fun!<br>Oh yes and apologise to the black  citizens for what your ancestors did to them , you know -SLAVERY</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711362">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711362" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711362" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711362">Ken</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711362" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711362" class="dsq-comment-message">To those that have bashed America:<br><br>Then you pay back what you owe...There isn\'t a nation on this planet that hasn\'t been rescued, bailed out in time of need by the good old US.  Maybe we should repossess Europe since guess who rebuilt that after WWII.<br><br>The problem here is exactly that we think America should be a democratic society when in FACT we are a Representative Republic and rightfully so.<br><br>Problem is we don\'t hold our leaders accountable.  No term limits for Congress.  All that is required to vote is survive to 18 yrs old and be a US citizen...hmm not a very selective matter for choosing the future of a country and we have paid for that.  Pay taxes then vote... then you have a skin in the game.<br><br>Stand alone legislation no more pork.  Let some of these other countries swim on their own without the billions handed out every year in economic aid.  And we sure don\'t really need any more toy arrows purchased with our tax dollars.<br><br>Personally I\'d like to see every incumbent voted out.  A message.  You are screwing this up and we won\'t tolerate it any longer.  $850B bail out with so much pork; length longer than our constitution.  They should all be fired immediately.  And how many of the folks that really got screwed got bailed out?  Considering the $10M bonuses handed out with our tax dollars I\'d say the bill was sure worth it.<br><br>I wonder if Obama is going to redistribute his $600M to the masses that didn\'t work for it too....seriously freaking doubt that.<br><br>Bottom line is our wealth distribution should be:  Work=Eat  Don\'t work = go find a church to donate some food to you because this aint Sherwood Forrest.  I\'m all for helping people; helping people help themselves.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711133">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711133" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711133" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711133">Bob</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711133" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711133" class="dsq-comment-message">"Socialism is a philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy; its inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery."<br>-- Sir Winston Churchill<br><br>(do you see yourself in that quote?)</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711363">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711363" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711363" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711363" href="http://www.new.facebook.com/profile.php?id=27210707" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Jesse</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711363" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711363" class="dsq-comment-message">Oh my god, you\'re guys\' ignorance is astounding!<br><br>"Socialized" goods you are hereby not allowed to use, lest ye be hypocrites:<br><br>Schools, universities, government research (back to 1850 with ya!), the postal service, water, national defense agencies, ROADS, virtually any good or service contingent to the use of public infrastructure ... see, I can go on all day.  You\'re not against formal socialism, you\'re against the social contract, which was only THE founding principle of our country.  I get it though, screw the constitution--ME, ME, ME, every pseudo-capitalist individualist for himself!<br><br>And oh, whoops!  It\'s not like your own party expanded government to its largest measure under "keeping government small" principles, socializing a $10,000,000,000/mo. war, socializing tax breaks for conservative "faith-based" groups, socializing tax breaks for the wealthy, socializing corporate rights to go on a full assault against the environment...<br>&gt;&gt;&gt; socializing ignorance!<br><br>And never mind the fact that formally "socialist" Scandinavian countries are some of the most stable and crime-free places in the world, simply because they don\'t suppress the idea that constitutional rights to equality aren\'t just symbolic, but are economic in nature.  Religion also has a striking position as a minority in those countries.  Hm...interesting.  Not like America, where religion walks lock-step with "conservative" principles toward dissolving the separation of church and state, toward the cause of being pro-war yet pro-life at the same time, toward abusing individual rights and equality of opportunity, and forcing their anti-pluralistic ignorance down everyone else\'s throat.  Plug your nose and swallow!  As rats do ravin down their proper bane...</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711364">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711364" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711364" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711364">RickB</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711364" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711364" class="dsq-comment-message">I believe that science, technology, and education should win over religion.<br><br>Amen to that :*)<br><br>check out <a href="http://www.slate.com/id/2203120/" rel="nofollow">http://www.slate.com/id/2203120/</a></div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711191">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711191" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711191" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711191">Terry</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711191" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711191" class="dsq-comment-message">Good on yer Jesse I couldn\'t have put it better myself!!</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711365">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711365" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711365" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711365">Terry</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711365" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711365" class="dsq-comment-message">So George doesn\'t know what the G20 is.<br>Too hard.<br>Should have asked him if he knew what the G8 was first</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711261">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711261" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711261" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <span id="dsq-author-user-9711261">Terry</span>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711261" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711261" class="dsq-comment-message">Oi! where has everybody gone?<br>Thats funny, as soon as I have a rant everyone disappears.<br>Anyway what are the car companies up to.<br>They want oodles of taxpayers money to build more<br>petrol cars. Well Gm built and leased electric cars and after<br>a few years recalled and trashed them.<br>I\'m resolved not to buy another car unless it\'s electric.<br>I\'ll keep repairing my bomb in protest.</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-9711260">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-9711260" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-9711260" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-9711260" href="http://www.new.facebook.com/profile.php?id=27210707" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Jesse</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-9711260" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-9711260" class="dsq-comment-message">If you get an electric car, where will the electricity come from?  Or what will fuel the equipment that makes the car?  What kind of industrial, petrochemicals will be necessary in order to produce the batteries?  How much will those batteries weigh in proportion to their power output, ie, how efficient will they be?</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 <li id="dsq-comment-11711441">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-header-11711441" class="dsq-comment-header">\
	 <cite id="dsq-cite-11711441" class="dsq-comment-cite">\
	 <a id="dsq-author-user-11711441" href="http://www.jonathanrosecompany.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">jonathan rose</a>\
	 </cite>\
	 </div>\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-body-11711441" class="dsq-comment-body">\
	 <div id="dsq-comment-message-11711441" class="dsq-comment-message">I am not an American either but I do live here, I do think that investing outside of america and the dollar right now is prudent as they are printing money so fast it is devaluing and will soon end up like the Lira....</div>\
	 </div>\
	 </li>\
	 </ul>\
';

(function() {
	
	





Dsq.Debug.profile(function() {
	if(Dsq.jsonData.request.page == 1 && Dsq.jsonData.request.is_initial_load) {
		Dsq.container.innerHTML = Dsq.Templates.header() + Dsq.container.innerHTML + Dsq.Templates.footer();
	}
	Dsq.$(Dsq.curPageId).innerHTML = Dsq.$(Dsq.curPageId).innerHTML.replace(Dsq.COMMENTS_RE, Dsq.CommentsHandler);
}); // Dsq.Debug.Profile

// HACK: Resetting cache because we're done with.
Dsq.Utils.gebiFromElementCollectionCache = null;


	
	
	var dsq_styleEl = document.getElementById(disqus_container_id);
	var dsq_anchorEl = document.getElementsByTagName('a')[0];
	
	Dsq.Thread.fc = Dsq.Utils.getStyle(dsq_styleEl, 'color');
	if(dsq_anchorEl) { Dsq.Thread.ac = Dsq.Utils.getStyle(dsq_anchorEl, 'color'); }
	Dsq.Thread.ff = Dsq.Utils.getStyle(dsq_styleEl, (Dsq.Utils.ie || window.opera ? 'fontFamily' : 'font-family'));
	// For Safari / Opera: strip quotes.
	Dsq.Thread.ff = Dsq.Thread.ff.replace(/['"]/g, '');
	Dsq.Thread.fc = encodeURIComponent(Dsq.Thread.fc);
	Dsq.Thread.ac = encodeURIComponent(Dsq.Thread.ac);
	Dsq.Thread.ff = encodeURIComponent(Dsq.Thread.ff);

	
	
	
	if(Dsq.$(Dsq.Templates.addPostContainer)) {
		// TODO: Check to see if theme uses postmessage.
		if (window.disqus_use_postmessage) {
			Dsq.frames['reply_0'] = new Dsq.ReplyFrame(Dsq.$(Dsq.Templates.textareaContainer));
			Dsq.frames['reply_0'].init(function() {
				// Use fallback iframe
				Dsq.$(Dsq.Templates.addPostContainer).innerHTML = '';
				var theme = (typeof disqus_frame_theme == 'undefined') ? 'default' : disqus_frame_theme;
				Dsq.Iframes.showReplyIframeInContainer(Dsq.$(Dsq.Templates.addPostContainer), null, {theme: theme});
				// if(Dsq.Utils.ie) { Dsq.Utils.fixIframesIE(); }
			});
		} else {
			// DEPRECATED
			Dsq.Iframes.showReplyIframeInContainer(Dsq.$('dsq-post-add'));
		}
	}

	
	

	
	if(document.location.hash != '') {
		document.location.hash = document.location.hash.substring(1);
	}

	Dsq.Popup.showCookieMsgs();

	
	if(document.location.search != '' && location.hash != '#disqus_thread') {
		var reply_id = Dsq.Utils.getRequestParams().dsq;
		if(reply_id) { document.location.hash = 'comment-' + reply_id; }
	}

	
	if((typeof OB_Script != 'undefined') && (typeof OB_versionNum != 'undefined')) {
		if(navigator.userAgent.indexOf("Firefox") != -1) {
			if(window.frames['dsq-reply-frame']) {
				window.frames['dsq-reply-frame'].location = Dsq.Urls.REPLY + (new Date()).getTime() + '&f=scobleizer&t=i_am_not_an_american&to_redirect=' + encodeURIComponent(window.location) + '&ifrs=' + encodeURIComponent(disqus_iframe_css);
			}
		}
	}

	if (Dsq.jsonData.integration.theme == 4) {
		if (Dsq.jsonData.realtime_enabled) {
			Dsq.Realtime.initialize();
		}
	}

	



	window.ExecuteWhen = (function () {
	var obj = {}
	
	// Private
	var running = false;
	var timer = null;
	var pending = [];
	var startTimer = function() {
		running = true;
		timer = setInterval(obj.heartBeat, 100);
	};
	var stopTimer = function() {
		running = false;
		clearInterval(timer);
	};
	
	// Public
	obj.add = function (condition, code) {
		pending.push([condition,code]);
		this.heartBeat(); //!
		if (!running) {
			startTimer();
		}
	};
	obj.heartBeat = function() {
		if (!pending.length) {
			stopTimer();
		}
		var newPending = [];
		for (var i=0; i<pending.length; i++) {
			var cond = pending[i][0];
			var code = pending[i][1];
			// FIXME: if cond or code throw an error, they never get removed from pending
			if (cond()){
				code();
			}
			else {
				newPending.push([cond, code]);
			}
		}
		pending = newPending;
	};
	return obj;
})();

// also used in embed_thread.js:
window.fbIsReady = function () {return window.FB && FB.init;};
// NOTE: This script gets executed again without threadEl
//       set when we are loaded again as the fbc_receiver.
//       In this case, we don't need the hidden container.

if(!window.FB || !FB.init) {
	if(window.Dsq && Dsq.container) {
		// container is not present when init.js is loaded from an xd-receiver iframe; in this case,
		// we don't need the FB_HiddenContainer anyway.
		var fbDiv = document.createElement('div');
		fbDiv.id = "FB_HiddenContainer";	// Required or else FeatureLoader will execute a document.write.
		fbDiv.style.position = 'absolute';	// This is intentionally not setting display to none as this breaks
		fbDiv.style.top = '-10000px';		// Flash in Safari.
		fbDiv.style.left = '-10000px';
		fbDiv.style.width = '0px';
		fbDiv.style.height = '0px';
		Dsq.container.appendChild(fbDiv);
	}
	var fbJS = document.createElement('script');
	fbJS.type = "text/javascript";
	fbJS.src = "http://static.ak.connect.facebook.com/js/api_lib/v0.4/FeatureLoader.js.php";
	document.getElementsByTagName('head')[0].appendChild(fbJS);

	ExecuteWhen.add(window.fbIsReady,
		function () {
			// HACK: This is a workaround FBC's single domain limitation by
			//		 allowing sites to create multiple forums with different
			//		 Facebook API keys.  This must be used in conjunction with
			//		 disqus_facebook_forum (see authenticateFacebook).
			var facebook_api_key = 'faaf467d0f47abde553c3b8e0e1b3570';
			if (typeof disqus_facebook_api_key != 'undefined') {
				facebook_api_key = disqus_facebook_api_key;
			}

			FB.init(facebook_api_key, window.facebookXdReceiverPath || null,
				{fetchSignedPublicSessionData: true});
		});
}


	


if(typeof(disqus_callback) == 'function') {
	var callback_params = Dsq.Utils.getRequestParams()['dsq_cbp'] || null;

	// We don't care about any errors in third-party code
	try {
		disqus_callback(callback_params);
	} catch (x) {
		if (typeof(console) != 'undefined' && typeof(console.log) == 'function') {
			// But it would be nice to let developers know about them
			console.log(x);
		}
		// pass
	}

	// HACK: We don't know if the callback wraps our container, which may
	// possibly result in a new DOM element.
	Dsq.container = document.getElementById('dsq-content');
}

// Global event handler for narcissus.
if (Dsq.jsonData.integration.theme == 4) {
	var g = Dsq.Utils.ie ? document : window;
	Dsq.Utils.addEventListener(g, 'keydown', function(event) {
		// Handle "enter" key on input for post box.
		if ((event.keyCode || event.which) == 13) {
			var target = Dsq.Utils.ie ? event.srcElement : event.target;
			// For Safari bug, detect text node.
			if (target.nodeType == 3) {
				target = target.parentNode;
			}

			if (target.nodeName == 'INPUT' &&
				target.parentNode.className == 'dsq-input-wrapper') {
				var postId = Dsq.Utils.extractId(target);
				Dsq.Templates.postComment(postId, this, false);
			}
		}
	});
}

})();




